Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

USDA FOREST SERVICE

Fiscal Year 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report Klamath National Forest

Patricia A. Grantham, Forest Supervisor

9/26/2017

This report is located on the Forest Service website at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/klamath/landmanagement/planning/?cid=fsm8_049843

USDA is an equal opportuniUSDAty provider is an equal and opportuniemployer.ty provider and employer. Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Table of Contents Introduction ...... 1 Geology ...... 1 Soils...... 3 Water Quality ...... 6 Air Quality ...... 11 Biological Diversity ...... 12 Sensitive Plants ...... 14 Wildlife ...... 19 Fisheries Management ...... 26 Visual Resource Management ...... 39 Wilderness...... 44 Lands Program Management ...... 45 Timber Management ...... 45 Fire Management ...... 47 Range Management ...... 48 Noxious Weeds ...... 55 Cultural Resource Management ...... 57 Planning ...... 58 List of Tables Table 1. High-severity acres from 2014 BAER reports...... 8 Table 2. Annual peak stream flows at the Indian Creek USGS gauge near Happy Camp during the monitoring period...... 11 Table 3. Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Counts for Happy Camp/Oak Knoll and Salmon/Scott River Ranger Districts: 2007-2016...... 20 Table 4. Willow flycatcher captures at Seiad Valley PCT1 Constant Effort Mist Netting Station: 2010‐2016...... 23 Table 5. Fall Chinook Salmon returning to the Klamath River Basin ...... 36 Table 6. Forest Range Monitoring Data Summary for FY 2016 ...... 51 List of Figures Figure 1. Trends in streambed fine sediment in watersheds that burned at a high burn severity in 2014...... 10 Figure 2. O’Neil Creek pond August 2016...... 19 Figure 3. Fall Chinook redds observed on the Salmon River in 2015...... 30 Figure 4. Salmon River run Size Estimates from 1978-2015 ...... 31 Figure 5. Observation of fall Chinook during the fall of 2015 Salmon River surveys...... 31 Figure 6. Fall Chinook redds observed and survey effort on the Scott River in 2015...... 33 Figure 7. Low discharge barrier in Reach 6...... 33 Figure 8. Scott River fall run size estimates for 1978 to 2015...... 34 Figure 9. Observation of fall Chinook during the 2015 Scott River surveys...... 35 Figure 10. Example of how the disruption of historic wildfire cycles has resulted in much of the Forest appearing uncharacteristically dense with small vegetation and a lack of historic scenic variety...... 40 Figure 11. Example post-treatment depicting a trend toward a more ecologically established Scenic Character, with more open forest conditions. (Goosenest Ranger District)...... 41 Figure 12. Forest departure from its historic, ecologically established vegetation condition...... 42 Figure 13. Post-treatment photo, resulting in open viewsheds, large tree character, a more resilient forest ecosystem, and a future visual environment that will support increased vegetative diversity (Salmon/Scott River Ranger District)...... 43

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Introduction The 1995 Klamath National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan1 (Forest Plan), as amended, provides a list of monitoring projects that are intended to be conducted on a regular basis. This Fiscal Year 2016 (FY 2016) Monitoring and Evaluation Report documents the evaluation of monitoring information related to the Forest Plan from October 1, 2015 through September 30, 2016. The objective of monitoring and evaluating Forest Plans is to determine whether programs and projects are meeting Forest Plan direction. Monitoring is the collection of information, on a sample basis, from sources identified in the Forest Plan. Evaluation of monitoring results is used to determine the effectiveness of the Forest Plan and the need either to change the Plan through amendment or revision or to continue with the Plan as written. Data are compared to data from past years, when appropriate. Monitoring results are emphasized rather than monitoring data. Evaluations are based on professional judgment when monitoring data are incomplete or lacking. This report and the resources discussed within it closely follow the format of the Monitoring and Evaluation Requirements outlined in Chapter 5 of the Forest Plan (p. 5-11 through 5-14). Each resource section identifies monitoring objectives, methodology, analysis results, and further action required, as applicable. In some cases, monitoring was not conducted as specified in the Plan. While most monitoring activities are accomplished on the prescribed schedule, some have been delayed due to funding shortfalls, lack of priority compared with other program needs, or lack of activity in that management program. Monitoring activities, if they occurred in addition to those identified in Chapter 5, are listed at the end of each resource area. Geology

A. Landslides Objectives: Test assumptions for landslide sediment production rates in the Forest Plan. Determine effectiveness of standards and guidelines in reducing landslide rates. Methodology: Forest-wide landslide production rates can only be effectively monitored after landslide-producing storms. No new active landslides were reported by the Forest in FY 2016. Consequently, no monitoring was warranted for this aspect of the objective. This element was monitored in depth following the flood of 1997, and adjustments made to sediment production rates and management practices accordingly. Findings from the monitoring done for the July 2015 storms were found to be within the current assumptions (see fiscal year 2015 Forest Plan Monitoring and Evaluation Report). The Forest monitored the application of geologic standards and guidelines by conducting field reviews of the McBaldy Project, Little Deer Fire Restoration

1 The Forest Plan, as amended, is located at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/klamath/landmanagement/planning. 1

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Project, Eddy Gulch Late Successional Reserve Habitat Improvement Project, and the Mt. Ashland Late Successional Reserve Project. Results: The standards and guidelines and resultant project design features were found to have been fully implemented for the McBaldy, Little Deer Fire Restoration, Eddy Gulch LSR Habitat Improvement, and Mt. Ashland projects. The standards and guidelines were found to have been effective at avoiding disturbance to potentially unstable lands and impacts to landslide processes. The treatments in McBaldy and Mt. Ashland projects reduced fuels and tree stand density which will likely lead to improved stand resilience to insects, disease, and wildfire. It also helps put the treated areas on a trajectory to comply with the standard and guideline to maintain vegetation on potentially unstable lands. Further Action Required: None. B. Geologic Hazards Objectives: Determine the level of hazardous materials (asbestos, radon, etc.) and if the Forest is meeting required standards. Evaluate effectiveness of standards and guidelines for reducing environmental threats from geologic hazards. Methodology: Naturally occurring hazardous materials would be investigated if new facilities were being proposed or new rock pits developed in ultramafic rock. Investigations include GIS analysis, review of previous investigations, and field review to determine the potential for the presents of hazardous materials. Laboratory testing for the presence or absence of hazardous materials may occur depending on the outcome of initial evaluation. Upon request by Forest staff, a geologic hazards risk evaluation would be completed using GIS analysis, review of previous investigations, and field review. The focus of the analysis would be to determine the threat to visitors and/or personnel from geologic events at a particular area or site on the Forest. Results: No asbestos or radon monitoring was conducted, since no rock aggregate from quarries in ultramafic rock was used as road surfacing, and no new radon threats were identified. No monitoring was done on hazards from abandoned mines, landfills, or seismic, volcanic or avalanche sources because the Forest was not aware of any new hazards relative to these threats for FY 2016. Further Action Required: No further action is required. C. Unique Geologic Areas Objectives: Assess the condition of unique geologic areas and effectiveness of Forest Plan standards and guidelines and resource management programs in preserving and protecting these resources. Methodology: Monitoring visits were conducted to Geologic Special Interest Areas (SIAs) at: North Russian Landslide and Kangaroo Lake. Monitoring was also done at Sulfur Springs Campground which is a non-SIA unique geologic feature. Three noteworthy caves, including Pluto’s Cave, were monitored for disturbance. Five photo points were established in Pluto’s Cave to monitor graffiti and vandalism trends in the well-used cave. Results: Geologic Special Interest Areas were all in good condition with little to no new disturbances. The North Russian Landslide was within the Whites Fire (2014) perimeter and had

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Westside Fire Recovery salvage harvest activities in 2016 near, but not adjacent or within, the boundary. The change in the surrounding appearance is consistent with the intention of the SIA. Kangaroo Lake SIA was accessed using the Fen Trail. Despite high use of the area, the features that make Kangaroo Lake SIA unique (rock formation and the larger glacial features) are durable and show no sign of wear from the use. The fens are properly functioning and there is no sign of trampling or overuse. Sulfur Springs had a ring of small rocks to create a shallow soaking pool for one of the many sulfur springs along Elk Creek, but this did not impact the integrity of the spring system. The trails that lead to the main spring complex are well maintained and there is no evidence of sediment delivery from heavy trail use. A comparison of photos taken in January 2015 to photos taken in February 2016 showed no new graffiti in Pluto’s Cave, but some evidence of fire use in the cave. The two gates at Barnum Cave and Sand Cave were not vandalized this year. Further Action Required: No further action is required. D. Geologic Mapping Objectives: Assess the accuracy of mapping units in the Forest Plan geologic database (rock type, geomorphic terrains, unstable and potentially unstable lands, etc.; Implementation, Effectiveness). Evaluate the unstable lands component of riparian reserves for accuracy (Implementation, Effectiveness). Methodology: The Forest has been working toward updating geomorphic mapping as part of project-level analysis for portions of the Elk Creek, East Fork Scott, and Harlan Projects. The resulting field mapping is used to refine the Forest geomorphic and bedrock layers. Results: Generally, the inner gorges are over-mapped, especially in steep terrain. Some new active slides have been located. The bedrock mapping was found to be fairly accurate in the project areas. These data have been updated based on these results. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Updates to the databases will be continued as needed. Soils Objective: To assess the implementation and effectiveness of soil standards, guidelines, and thresholds to maintain soil productivity. The overarching Forest Plan standards and guidelines for soils require that land management activities are planned and implemented to maintain or enhance soil productivity and stability; specific requirements for soil cover and soil organic matter are set. The Forest Plan calls for soil quality standards to be met on at least 85 percent of lands dedicated to producing vegetation. For soil compaction, a ten percent or more reduction in total soil porosity of the surface soil over natural conditions on 15 percent or more of the area is a variation from standards that requires further action. The Region 5 supplement to Forest Service Manual 2550 provides indicators including soil stability, soil organic matter, and soil structure to measure soil condition. Soil condition classes are defined as “Good” (meets desired condition), “Fair” (partially meets desired condition), and “Poor” (does not meet desired condition). To assess the effects of management actions on soil functions, desired condition of each indicator is evaluated and determined to either meet desired conditions or not meet desired conditions.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Methodology: Activity units were evaluated to determine if desired condition for soil indicators (soil stability and soil structure) were met. Soil cover and effectiveness of erosion control, rutting and signs of erosion on skid trails, suspended yarding, meadow protection, road decommissioning, temporary roads, landings, prescribed fire areas, and OHV trails were measured to evaluate soil stability. Soil stability desired condition is met if an adequate level of soil cover is present and signs of erosion are not visible or very limited in degree and extent. Forest Plan Standard and Guideline 3-2 provides guidance on adequate levels of soil cover levels by soil texture class, slope steepness, and management activity. Units were monitored on a randomly selected subset of management areas. Randomly selected units are the same ones selected for Best Management Practice Evaluation Program monitoring and include: skid trails, suspended yarding, meadow protection, road decommissioning, temporary roads, landings, prescribed fire areas, and OHV trails. Results: Skid Trails: Pomeroy unit 3 was monitored on the Goosenest district and found to still be meeting contract and project requirements. Rattler unit 3113 on the Scott District was monitored and found to still be meeting contract and project requirements. McBaldy unit 52 on Scott District was monitored and found to still be meeting contract requirements. McBaldy unit 107 on Scott District was monitored and found to still be meeting contract requirements Suspended Yarding: Caribou unit 7 on the Salmon District was monitored and found to meet contract and project requirements. Landings: Tea Garden unit 6 on the Salmon District was evaluated for surface erosion. No signs of erosion were found on the landing. This landing met desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. McBaldy unit 51 on the Salmon District was evaluated for surface erosion. Slight signs of erosion were found on the landing. This landing had a minor departure from desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. McBaldy unit 86 on the Salmon District was evaluated for surface erosion. Slight signs of erosion were found on the landing. This landing had met the desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. Meadow Protection: Eddy Stewardship unit 25 on the main east fork of the south fork of the Salmon River was monitored and was found to meet desired conditions for all applicable soil indicators.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Road Decommissioning: Decommissioning of road 44N6C on the Salmon/Scott District was monitored and found to meet the desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. Decommissioning of road 46N46.1A on the Scott River was monitored and found to meet the desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. Temporary Roads: The temporary road was monitored in the Mt. Ashland unit 347 and was found to meet the desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. The temporary road was monitored in the Mt. Ashland unit 207/500 and was found to meet the desired conditions for applicable soil indicators. Prescribed Fire: Ben Horse Cultural in Horse Creek, met or exceeded the 75 percent soil cover objective. These units meet desired conditions for soil stability and soil structure. Cade Mountain underburn in unit 28, met or exceeded the 75 percent soil cover objective. These units meet desired conditions for soil stability and soil structure. Cade Mountain underburn in unit 14, met or exceeded the 75 percent soil cover objective. These units meet desired conditions for soil stability and soil structure.

OHV Trails: Trail 46N22 on the Humbug OHV area on the Oak Knoll District was evaluated for surface erosion. This trail met the national and regional BMP guidelines. Trail 46N88.2 on the Humbug OHV area on the Oak Knoll District was evaluated for surface erosion. This trail met the national and regional BMP guidelines. Trail 5594 on the Humbug OHV area on the Oak Knoll District was evaluated for surface erosion. This trail met the national and regional BMP guidelines. Ground Based Skidding: Unit 234 on Ashland LAS Project was analyzed and the ground based skidding harvesting was found to be effective for the soil indicators. Conclusion: Forest Plan standards and guidelines for soil stability, soil organic matter, and soil structure were met for all areas monitored. Management of the soil resource can be improved for future projects if skidder operators are discouraged from turning on sideslopes where possible. The recommendation is to reduce the amount of soil displacement by having the operator travel perpendicular to the hillslope as much as possible where slopes exceed 35 percent. These recommended changes will increase the percentage of activity units meeting desired conditions and will improve the maintenance of soil productivity and stability on National Forest lands. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Water Quality

A. Best Management Practices Implementation and Effectiveness Objective: Monitor implementation of best management practices (BMPs) and evaluate their effectiveness at meeting state and federal water quality laws, Forest Plan goals, and Forest Plan standards and guidelines. Methodology: BMP Implementation Monitoring Checklists BMP implementation monitoring checklists are required for all projects covered under category B of the Regional Water Board’s Waiver of Waste Discharge Requirements Order No. R1-2015- 0021. The checklists are developed by the Forest Service and submitted with the Category B Waiver enrollment package for approval by the Regional Water Board staff. Road Project BMP Effectiveness Monitoring Checklists BMP effectiveness monitoring checklists are required only for road projects covered under category B such as new road construction, re-construction, stream crossing repair, and culvert replacements. Effectiveness monitoring checklists are completed after one winter to assess whether the BMPs and on‐the‐ground prescriptions were effective in protecting water quality. Best Management Practices Evaluation Program (BMPEP) In addition to the BMP checklists, the Waiver requires BMP implementation and effectiveness monitoring using the Forest Service BMP Evaluation Program. Unlike the checklists which are completed for every project, the BMPEP monitors only a random sample of recently completed projects. The evaluation method follows the National Best Management Practices Technical Guide which is more rigorous than the checklists. The Forest Service is in the process of switching from a regional protocol to a new national protocol so in 2016 we used both methods. A description of the methods used and an annual report of findings is posted on the Klamath National Forest Water Quality Monitoring webpage at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/resources/klamath/landmanagement/resourcemanagement Results: BMP Implementation Monitoring Checklists In 2016 implementation checklists were completed by USFS Timber Sale Administrators for the following projects: • Caroline Creek Salvage • Grider Salvage • Three Biscuit Fire Salvage • Walker Creek Fire Salvage All BMPs were reported as implemented for these projects.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Road Project BMP Effectiveness Monitoring Checklists No road effectiveness checklists have been completed as of 2016 because the KNF had no road projects that were covered under the 2015 Waiver that had gone through one winter. Best Management Practices Evaluation Program In 2016 we monitored 34 sites using the regional evaluation methods, plus six sites using the new national BMP evaluation protocols. Of the 34 sites monitored using the regional methods, four were “retrospective” sites which were re-evaluated for effectiveness four or five years after they were originally rated as effective. The results show that BMPs were fully implemented at 93 percent and fully effective at 97 percent of sites evaluated. One site in the McBaldy Timber Sale was rated as less than effective or “at-risk” due to erosion on skid trails (Table 4 of the report). Three sites had minor departures for BMP implementation but were still rated as fully effective. BMPs for all other activities were rated as fully implemented and effective. A full report containing the data and analysis submitted to the Water Board is posted on the Forest website under water quality: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/klamath/landmanagement/resourcemanagement/?cid=stelprdb5312 713 Further Action Required: In cases where sites were rated as less than fully effective corrective actions were taken if necessary and follow-up monitoring will occur in 2017.

B. In-stream Sediment and Temperature Monitoring Objective: In-channel sediment monitoring is required by the KNF Forest Plan Table 5-1, as a condition of the North Coast Water Board’s Waiver of Waste Discharge Requirements, and in the Forest Service R-5 Water Quality management Handbook FSH 2509.22 Ch. 10. The purpose of the in-channel monitoring is to help determine whether USFS project management and BMPs are collectively effective in meeting water quality objectives at the watershed scale. Methodology: The sampling methodology is described in the 2015 sediment monitoring report which provides a comprehensive overview of the sediment monitoring program (USDA 2016)2. Fine sediment is monitored near the mouth of 79 tributary streams with each site sampled on a five-year rotation. Effects are evaluated by comparing values in managed streams with those in reference streams which are located in wilderness and roadless areas. Sediment deposition on stream beds is measured using three methods: • Percent fine sediment in the bed subsurface is measured using a McNeil core sampler (Schuett-Hames et al., 1999)3

2 USFS, 2016. Streambed Sediment Conditions on the Klamath National Forest 2009 to 2015. Klamath National Forest Pacific Southwest Region 1711 S. Main St. Yreka, CA 96097. Revised: 1-22-2016 3Schuett-Hames, D., R. Conrad, A. Pleus, and M. McHenry. 1999. TFW Monitoring Program Method Manual for the Salmonid Spawning Gravel Composition Survey. Prepared for the Washington State Dept. of Natural Resources under the Timber, Fish, and Wildlife Agreement. TFW-AM9-99-001. DNR #101. March. 7

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

• Percent fine sediment on the riffle surface is measured using a sampling frame similar to Cover (2008)4 • The portion of pools filled with fine sediment is measured using the V* method (Hilton and Lisle, 1993)5 Stream temperature monitoring is located at the same sites as for sediment plus some additional sites that are suitable only for temperature monitoring. Stream temperature is measured using digital dataloggers sampling at half hour intervals. The procedures used for temperature sampling, data processing, and quality control are provided in a quality assurance project plan that was approved by the North Coast Regional Water Board in 2010. Results: Stream Sediment The emphasis for sediment monitoring in 2016 was on re-measuring eight streams that burned at high-severity during the wildfires of 2014 (Table 1 below). Each of these streams had one or two measurements prior to being burned in 2014, and another measurement in 2015 immediately following the fires. The 2016 measurement was the second post-fire measurement which allows us to evaluate recovery trends back to pre-fire conditions.

Table 1. High-severity acres from 2014 BAER reports.

Stream High-Severity Acres

Beaver Creek 1 1,195 South Russian Creek 502 Grider Creek 1 334 Elk Creek 2 272 Whites Gulch 240 Walker Creek 1 228 North Russian Creek 228 East Fork Elk Creek 153 Trends before the 2014 fires were consistent with very little change in percent fine sediment at the sites where we have two samples prior to the fires (Figure 1). An exception to this trend was in Thompkins Creek which had a decreasing trend in percent fines less than 0.85mm and less than 6.35mm prior to the fires. The consistency of fine sediment in the pre-fire period is due to a

4 Cover, M.R., C.L. May, W.E. Dietrich, and V.H. Resh. 2008. Quantitative linkages among sediment supply, streambed fine sediment, and benthic macroinvertebrates in northern California streams. J. N. Am. Benthol. Soc. 27(1):135-149. 5 Hilton, S., and T.E. Lisle. 1993. Measuring the Fraction of Pool Volume Filled with Fine Sediment. USFS PSW-RN- 414-WEB. July. 8

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report lack of large floods or wildfires. This period represents the long-term chronic erosion and cumulative effects of past management without the influence of recent debris flows. The pre-fire condition was already over the reference condition in 5 streams for percent fine sediment less than 6.35mm, and in four streams for sediment less than 0.85mm (lower graphs in Figure 1). The 2015 report found that during the pre-fire period when peak stream flows never exceeded the 3- year recurrence interval, sediment indicators in both managed and reference streams changed by less than 1.8 percent. There were no significant changes between the 1st and 2nd samples during this period (paired t-test, p les than 0.05).

In the year immediately after the fires (2015) heavy precipitation in the burned area caused localized flooding and debris flows that delivered a large pulse of sediment to Grider, Walker, Beaver, and South Russian Creeks. The largest impact was in Grider and Walker Creeks where the monitoring stations were directly buried in the runout of debris flows. The V* measurements (upper left graph in Figure 1) show that 100 percent of the pool volume in Grider Creek was filled with fine sediment. The other streams which had high-severity burns but did not experience debris flows in 2015 had a much smaller sediment response with no detectable change in Elk, East Fork Elk, Kelsey, or Thompkins Creeks. The debris flows and their locations are described in more detail in the geology report for the 2015 storms (USFS, 2015). In 2016, the second year after the fires, the portion of pools filled with fine sediment and the percentage of fine sediment on riffle surfaces had recovered to pre-fire conditions (Figure 1). These metrics are sensitive to annual changes in sediment supply and a decreasing trend indicates a declining input of sediment to the stream network as bare soils in the high-severity burns are revegetated and hydrophobic soils are broken up. In most streams the declining trend in fine sediment did not drop below the levels that existed prior to the fires. As described in the 2015 analysis, watersheds that were over the reference condition due to high road densities before the fires are likely to return to those same long-term chronic levels after the short term pulse of sediment from the fires is routed through the stream network (USFS, 2016). Although the surface of the streambed is recovering there is still a large amount of fine sediment stored in the subsurface of the streambed. Subsurface fine sediment less than 0.85mm and less than 6.35mm was only partially recovered in 2016 and sediment less than 6.35mm remained high in Whites, South Russian, and Beaver Creeks. The high values are due to a layer of ash and very fine sediment at 0.1 to 0.2 meters below the surface of the streambed. Peak stream flows in 2016 do not appear to have been large enough to scour to these deeper layers of the streambed which were deposited during larger flows in 2015 (Table 2).

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Figure 1. Trends in streambed fine sediment in watersheds that burned at a high burn severity in 2014. The bottom two graphs are sub-surface sediment measured using a McNeil core sampler. The reference condition represents sediment values in unmanaged reference streams as described in the 2015 sediment monitoring report (USFS 2016).

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Table 2. Annual peak stream flows at the Indian Creek USGS gauge near Happy Camp during the monitoring period.

Year Streamflow (cfs) 2008 4,960 2009 3,940 2010 4,090 2011 2,600 2012 6,140 2013 7,400 2014 3,570 2015 9,770 2016 7,360

Stream Temperature Stream temperature dataloggers were deployed at 125 sites including all of the sites listed in the KNF monitoring plan. We were unable to get the data entered into the Forest Service database or conduct an analysis in 2016. As required by the Waiver the Klamath National Forest will conduct an analysis of the data for the 5-year summary report due in 2020. Further Action Required: None.

C. Forest Cumulative Watershed Effects Modeling Objective: Test the validity of the techniques used for determining thresholds of concern in the Forest Plan. Required in Table 5-1 of the Forest Plan. Methodology: The validity of the Forest cumulative watershed effects models are tested by comparing equivalent roaded area and modeled sediment supply with the in-stream fine sediment measured in section B above. Results: The 2015 report to the Regional Water Board identified potential thresholds for equivalent roaded area and road density based on the probability of exceeding reference conditions for in-stream fine sediment. The full results are posted on the KNF water quality monitoring webpage. Further Action Required: An interagency review is needed to interpret the potential thresholds identified in the sediment analysis and recommend revision of the CWE thresholds. Air Quality Objective: Monitor the effects of forest management activities on air quality related values (biologic resources and visual quality) of the Class I area in Marble Mountain Wilderness using methods identified in GTR-RM-168 and to comply with the Clean Air Act.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Methodology: Data on the impacts of ozone and sulfur/nitrogen deposition data were compiled for sub- watersheds (6th field Hydrologic Unit Code) on the Forest during the Watershed Condition Classification analysis in 2010 and are still valid. Opportunistic observations on the visibility in the Marble Mountain Wilderness (Class I Wilderness) were made following the procedure in GTR-RM- 168. These observations were made on June 29, 2016 and July 7, 2016 at Paradise Lake/Kelsey Meadows, July 28, 2016 at Log Lake/Campbell Lake and August 18, 2016 at Shelly Meadows/Shelly Creek. Air quality related lichen plots, installed and photographed in 1992, were re-photographed in the Marble Mountain Wilderness in 2012. This fiscal year, the photos were digitized and quantitatively analyzed to determine if there have been any changes in air quality between 1992 and 2012. Results: The sub-watersheds in the Marble Mountain Wilderness (Upper Elk Creek, Upper Wooley Creek, Middle Wooley Creek, Lower Wooley Creek, North Fork Wooley Creek, Hancock Creek, Grant/NF Salmon River, Right Hand Fork Salmon River, Yellow Dog Creek, Shackleford Creek, Canyon Creek, and Kelsey Creek) all have sulfur/nitrogen deposition that is at least 10 percent below the critical terrestrial threshold. The sub-watersheds in the Marble Mountain Wilderness were all determined to have ozone levels that do not impact forest health. The visibility on all visits was over 20 miles with very little haze. This is because there were no major wildfires burning in the area during the times of the visits. The findings of the lichens study indicate that there was not a strong correlation that could be observed based on predominate wind flow direction or elevation; of the trends observed, the parent material and vegetation type did not appear to have any bearing on the trend increasing or decreasing over time. However, three of the plots in Marble Valley sites showed slightly decreasing populations. This indicates that of all the lichen plot locations, the Marble Valley may be receiving the most air pollutants or otherwise has had some environmental event that is causing slight decrease in the trend of lichen populations in the Marble Valley. It is hard to pinpoint the exact cause of these trends but the pollutants associated with the decreasing trends are fluoride, sulfur dioxides, and oxidants. The primary sources of fluoride emissions in or adjacent to Siskiyou County are the use of chemicals related to agriculture including pesticides. The primary sources of sulfur dioxide emissions found in or around Siskiyou County are industrial processes such as wood pulping, paper manufacture and petroleum refining. And the primary source of oxidants is vehicle emissions and emissions from manufacturing. Forest management is very distantly and indirectly associated with these sources and is not likely to be measurably contributing to this trend in air quality in Marble Valley. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The next round of long-term photo monitoring will be conducted again between 2025 and 2030. Biological Diversity

A. Size and Shapes of Openings Objective: Ensure timber harvest openings are consistent with ecosystem composition, structure and function. Methodology: The use of remote sensing data for this monitoring is identified in the Forest Plan. Since vegetative treatments have not created openings large enough to trigger remote sensing analysis, no monitoring has been conducted.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Results: N/A Further Action Required: No further action is required. Objective: Analyze and write up data from over 200 vegetation plots in the Russian Wilderness on the Klamath National Forest that were originally established in 1969 to assess changes in tree species composition over the last 45 years. Vegetation plot data was also supplemented by the collection on detailed forest pathology data on Shasta red fir (Abies magnifica var. shastensis) and an assessment of fuel build-up around large legacy sugar pines (Pinus lambertiana) in lower elevation mixed conifer forests within the Russian Wilderness. Methodology: The province ecologist and two graduate students from Humboldt State University analyzed vegetation data collected from 207 repeat plots in the Russian Wilderness to look at the roles of fire, fire exclusion, and the potential impacts of climate change on forest structure and composition over time. The goal of this study is to better understand forest disturbance processes in enriched mixed conifer forests on National Forest lands. Results: The first publication from this monitoring work was published in the journal Fremontia in January 2016. It is titled “Revisiting John Sawyer and Dale Thornburgh’s 1969 vegetation plots in the Russian Wilderness: a legacy continued.” Two additional manuscripts have been submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and are currently in review. Further Action Required: This study is part of a series of research projects by several graduate students at Humboldt State University. All field work has been completed and published results are forthcoming. No further action in future years is required.

B. Other Monitoring Efforts – Red fir monitoring Objective: The primary objective of our study was to quantify the level of Shasta red fir mortality across a uniquely diverse region in the Klamath Mountains, and to better understand what endogenous and exogenous processes are contributing to recent mortality. Methodology: From July 28th through August 14th, 19 monitoring plots were established on burned and unburned National Forest land in the Marble Mountain Wilderness. Plot locations were chosen using a particularly defined selection protocol, wherein the location had to have greater than 50 percent red fir canopy cover, must be unlogged and 100 meters from any human disturbances or other plots, and must have been moderately burned twice with the most recent fire being after 1980. Unburned control plots were established near the burned locations and have similar geographical features. Results: All plot locations were subalpine between 1,625 and 1,980 meters in elevation, and forest types encountered were red fir and mixed conifer. In total we surveyed 621 total trees, 249 of which were trees on unburned control plots. Tree species recorded include Abies magnifica var. shastensis, Abies concolor, Tsuga mertensiana, Pinus monticola, Pinus lambertiana, Calocedrus decurrens, and Psuedotsuga menziesii on burned plots, while unburned plots had Abies magnifica var. shastensis, Abies concolor, Tsuga mertensiana and a single Picea breweri. Regeneration, which was measured as trees taller than 10 cm but less than 5 cm in DBH, never exceeded 100 stems per plot. Trees were assessed for six different health codes. These plots are part of a larger effort by the R5 Regional Ecology Program to better understand recent mortality in red fir throughout its range in Region 5. Multiple manuscripts are being written and will be submitted for publication and provided to the Forests.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Further Action Required: This study is part of a region-wide effort in red fir monitoring. Data are currently being analyzed and published results are forthcoming. No further action in future years is required.

C. Other Monitoring Efforts – Whitebark pine monitoring Objective: Whitebark pine is distinguished among other five-needle pines for its unique growth characteristics and ecological associations with Clark’s nutcracker and many mammals within high elevation mixed conifer forests. There are two pathogens however that may pose a particular threat to the health of whitebark pine populations: the native mountain pine beetle and introduced white pine blister rust. Objectives for monitoring (Region 5; 2011-2013, revised in 2014) include determining health effects and interplay of white pine blister rust and mountain pine beetle, especially within the context of climate change. Methodology: From June 12-July 26, 2016, 19 plots in five sampling locations were established in accordance with the Whitebark Pine Inventory and Monitoring Protocol—Region 5 Regional Ecology Program. Sampling locations were selected using a stratified random sample design, and plots were installed at random points within each location following verification of suitability using stand evaluations in the field for the following criteria: (1) dominance or codominance of whitebark pine, and (2) presence of 10-25 whitebark pine trees, minimum. Results: Among the five sampling sites, 953 trees were surveyed, 83 percent of which were whitebark pines. Seventeen percent of the total whitebark pines surveyed were dead. Average proportions of whitebark pines that exhibited signs or symptoms of whitebark pine blister rust were highest for cankers and branch tumefactions (33 percent and 16 percent, respectively). Further analyses of these data are currently underway. These plots are part of a larger effort by the R5 Regional Ecology Program to better understand the health status of whitebark pines in Region 5. Multiple manuscripts are being written and will be submitted for publication and provided to the Forests. Further Action Required: This study is part of a region-wide effort in whitebark monitoring. Data are currently being analyzed and published results are forthcoming. No further action in future years is required. Sensitive Plants Objective: Assure maintenance of sensitive plant populations and/or species viability.

A. Project Planning Methodology: Approximately 600 acres were inventoried in FY 2016 for projects in planning stages. Surveys were conducted for Forest sensitive species, survey and manage Category A and C species, and federally endangered plant species. Different types of projects included: forest management (McCollins, Elk Creek, Pumice, Harlan, East Fork Scott, etc.), habitat restoration (fish ponds, fish passage, channel restoration) mining, grazing (wilderness allotments), and hazardous fuel reduction (Scott Bar Mills Creek Fuels) where threats and protection measures needed to be identified. Surveys were intuitively controlled, searching suitable habitats for new populations of sensitive plant species, and confirming status of known populations.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Results: A previously unknown population of whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis) was located on Garner Mountain on the Goosenest Ranger District. The population was documented and entered in Forest and National (NRIS) databases. Previously unknown populations of Cypripedium fasciculatum and C. montanum were located on the Salmon River District. Populations were within the Jess Vegetation Management Project and were flagged for avoidance. Populations were documented and entered in Forest and National (NRIS) databases. Known populations of Cypripedium fasciculatum, C. montanum, Eriogonum hirtellum, Erythronium hendersonii, Ivesia pickeringii, Minuartia stolonifera, Thermopsis robusta, and Ptilidium californicum were flagged and buffered for protection from activities associated with Forest management activities in FY 2016. Further Action Required: Sensitive plant inventories are a regular component of the KNF botany program and will continue. Populations buffered for avoidance during project planning stages will be monitoring for implementation effectiveness in future years.

B. Mitigation and Implementation Effectiveness Monitoring About 30 acres of field monitoring was conducted on sites where mitigation measures (buffers) have been applied for project implementation. Monitoring measured: 1) implementation (if buffers correctly applied) and 2) effectiveness (if buffers protected species as expected). Cypripedium fasciculatum and C. montanum (clustered and mountain lady’s slipper) Methodology: Selected populations are revisited annually within project areas under evaluation and where projects have already been implemented. In 2016, populations within the implemented project were visited to asses if buffers were applied correctly and worked effectively. Populations within the McCollins and Crawford project areas where flagged and buffered for protection. Results: Monitoring indicates that protection measures have been effective at protecting plants and their habitat. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Calochortus persistens (Siskiyou mariposa lily) Methodology: Implementation with mitigation measures within Calochortus persistens habitat in the Mcbaldy project area continue to be monitored. Part of the purpose and need for the Mcbaldy project was to reduce the risk of high intensity wildfire within the project area; this was a beneficial action for the Calochortus persistens population. However, proposed activities did have a high risk of spreading known noxious weed populations, therefore, additional weed reduction efforts have been directed to this area. Results: Monitoring indicates that protection measures have been effective at protecting plants and their habitat, however project activities did result in the spread of known noxious weed infestations. The most substantial growth occurred adjacent to temporary roads and landings, but is contained to Project units and has not spread into protected Calochortus persistens populations. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The Forest noxious weed crew will continue to treat the known noxious weeds present at this site.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Ivesia pickeringii (silky mousetail) Methodology: Mitigation measures surrounding pile and burning activities in meadows with Ivesia pickeringii habitat in the Roo Project were implemented to protect the population. Results: Implementation in the Roo Project area was successful. The trees that were hand-cut and piled on the edge of the meadow were piled in areas designated by the botanist, and some piles were burned during the fall or winter of 2013. Four monitoring plots, including a control, were established in FY 2013 to observe the effect of pile burning on Ivesia. The response of Ivesia adjacent to piles that have been burned to date has been favorable. Presently, meadow habitat containing Ivesia sp. appears to be thriving. The area of meadow that was planted with Festuca idahoensis (Idaho Fescue) plugs in the fall of 2011 continues to show improvement in vegetative cover. Further Action Required: Plants within burned plots need to be counted in the Roo project area. Ptilidium californicum (Pacific fuzzwort) Methodology: Implementation with mitigation measures within Ptilidium californicum habitat for the Two-bit project area continue to be monitored. Results: Monitoring indicates that protection measures have been effective at protecting plants and their habitat. Trees hosting Pacific fuzzwort were not removed or damaged during skidding operations. Some buffer zones were impacted by skidding operations, however populations were not directly impacted and were still alive and healthy during FY16 monitoring. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Thermopsis robusta (robust false lupine) Methodology: Populations of robust false lupine were surveyed by the Mid Klamath Watershed Council for the Western Klamath Restoration Partnership fuel reduction project. Results: Robust false lupine populations tend to benefit from disturbance, especially mastication and ground disturbance. Four new populations were identified in the project area. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

C. Other Monitoring a. Rare and Declining Species Objective: To determine the condition of special habitat occupied by rare and declining species that may be federally listed as threatened or endangered, or Federal candidate species. Pony Fire Methodology: Surveys were conducted along areas identified for use as fire line (dozer and hand line), safety zones, heli-spots, and water drafting sites. Results: Two new sites of robust false lupine were located during surveys. Sites were recorded in Forest and National (NRIS) databases. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Gap Fire Methodology: Surveys of known sensitive plant populations were surveyed in areas affected by the 2016 Gap Fire. Results: The Horkelia hendersonii population at Dry Lake was monitored for impacts from fire and suppression activities. The population was found to be healthy. Traffic exclusion boulders placed in the mid-2000s were effective and no evidence of off-road use within occupied habitat was observed. There was no evidence of fire activities impacting the population. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The Forest will continue to monitor the viability of this population. Calochortus persistens (Siskiyou Mariposa Lily) Methodology: This species is geographically limited to three known occurrences west and north of Yreka, CA. The main threats to the species are thought to be an invasive species, Isatis tinctoria, locally known as Marlahan mustard or Dyer’s woad, and the risk of fire suppression activities. In FY 2013 a Conservation Agreement was signed between the Klamath National Forest, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. The schedule of conservation actions in the document specifies annual actions, including annual weed treatment. Annual weed treatments have been conducted for fourteen years in specific areas that are adjacent to and within occupied habitat, in order to reduce seed production and invasive species impact. In FY 2016, 140 acres were treated for Isatis tinctoria. In FY 2016, Forest staff collected seed from Calochortus persistens populations for long term genetic storage. Seeds were shipped to the Ray Selling Berry Botanic Seed Bank in Portland, Oregon. Results: Due to the effective implementation of the Conservation Agreement and the continued reduction of noxious weed infestations located within suitable habitat, Calochortus persistens was removed from the Federal candidate list in FY 2015. Continued monitoring of Calochortus persistens’ occupied habitat indicates that where treatment has been taking place, Isatis tinctoria is gradually decreasing. Further Action Required: Continued implementation of the Conservation Agreement, including establishment of monitoring plots to assess effects of prescribed fire and shrub removal on known populations. Ivesia pickeringii (silky mousetail) and Minuartia stolonifera (stolon sandwort) Methodology: Populations were monitored for possibility of encroachment degrading meadow habitat that these species inhabit. Results: Areas of encroachment that have the potential to negatively impact populations in the East Fork Scott project area were identified and treatment options will be included in the proposed action for the project. Further Action Required: Follow up to ensure meadow encroachment is included in the final environmental impact statement for the project and that populations are protected during implementation.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Parnassia fimbriata var. intermedia (fringed grass of Parnassus): Methodology: Site visit to assess health and viability of population at Kangaroo Lake Results: Population was very healthy during monitoring visit. There was no sign of disturbance to population. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Phacelia greenei (Scott Valley Phacelia): Methodology: Phacelia greenei habitat in the Roo project area was flagged and buffered for avoidance to protect the population and surrounding habitat from project related disturbance. Results: Monitoring indicates that protection measures (flag and avoid) have been effective at protecting plants and their habitat. No flagged populations were impacted by project activities. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Raillardella pringlei (showy raillardella) Methodology: Site visit to assess health and viability of population at Little Mill Creek Meadows Results: Population was very healthy during monitoring visit. There was no sign of disturbance to population. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Lake Mountain Foxtail Pine Botanical Special Interest Area Objective: To enhance habitat necessary for the maintenance of the foxtail pine population at Lake Mountain Lookout. This is one of the only places on the Forest where visitors can drive to see this unique conifer species at the northern end of its range. Methodology: The final phase of the project was implemented in June 2015, with 150 foxtail pine seedlings planted in the Special Interest Area. Of these, 120 of the planted seedlings have been mapped for survival monitoring. Results: Of the mapped seedlings, approximately half survived year one. Seedlings planted near old, dead foxtail pine had the greatest survival. Seedlings planted in open areas without overstory cover had the highest mortality. Further Action Required: No further action is required. b. Vegetation Recovery, O’Neil Pond Methodology: Monitoring of vegetation recovery around the salmon rearing pond constructed at O’Neil Creek for the purposes of enhancing riparian habitat in lieu of habitat loss due to culvert replacement by Caltrans, along Highway 96. Vegetation recovery will be monitored for five years, or until 65 percent re-vegetation has been reached. Plots will be established using a standard sampling protocol. Results: Forty-four plots were monitored along a 110 meter transect. Mean vegetation cover was 59 percent in 2016, a 9 percent increase from 2015. Native species represent 73 percent of identified plants and the majority are facultative wetland or obligate wetland species. The non-native white sweet clover,

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Melilotus albus was removed in the vicinity directly surrounding the pond. Other non-native species recorded at the site include: Daucus carota, Hypericum perforlatum, Lotus corniculatus, Melilotus albus, Mentha arvensis, Plantago major, Rubus armeniacus, and Veronica anagalis-aquatica. These are all low priority weed species on the Forest, and are generally considered naturalized across the county. Further Action Required: No further action required. Control of white sweet clover will continue in 2016 to promote increased cover by native vegetation. Monitoring will continue through 2018.

Figure 2. O’Neil Creek pond August 2016. Wildlife

A. Bald and Golden Eagles Objectives: 1) Determine trend and productivity of breeding population; 2) evaluate trend of habitat delineated to meet Recovery Plan objectives; 3) determine use, condition and trend of identified active and potential roost sites; and 4) assess effectiveness of Forest Plan standards and guidelines. Methodology: The Forest monitors bald and golden eagles annually using two primary methods of monitoring: 1) mid-winter eagle counts and 2) breeding period surveys. Mid-winter eagle counts monitor bald and golden eagle winter use along seven monitoring routes covering the Mid-Klamath, Salmon and Scott Rivers, and the Shasta and Scott Valleys (about 200,000 acres in total). These monitoring results are combined with a larger dataset of the winter use trends of bald and golden eagles across the western United States. Breeding period surveys target known nest locations and river habitat where eagles are expected to occur and document the nesting chronology and reproductive success of each nest by repeated observations over the course of the breeding season (March – August). Bald and golden eagle monitoring in FY 2016 was conducted by Forest Service personnel, California State Fish and Wildlife, and community volunteers.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Results: Breeding Period Surveys Goosenest Ranger District: In FY 2016, seven known bald eagle nest sites were monitored across the Goosenest Ranger District. Of these seven nest sites, six nests were reproductively active. Three nest sites had confirmed fledging of young. All historic golden eagle data were compiled and submitted to USFWS for incorporation into a population demography study. Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District: Breeding period monitoring for the Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District in FY 2016 monitored eight known bald eagle nest locations along the Klamath River. Six out of eight nest sites were active during the 2016 season. Reproduction was confirmed at five nests. Salmon/Scott River Ranger District: In FY 2016, the breeding survey monitoring occurred on three known bald eagle nest locations along the Salmon and Scott River watersheds. Two of the three known bald eagle nests were active and had confirmed reproduction. A total of 15 visits were made to monitor the nests. Additionally, one golden eagle nest was monitored in the Scott Valley. This pair was not reproductive. Mid-Winter Eagle Counts On the Goosenest District, bald eagles were detected at two of three known winter roosts, and seven adult and six immature bald eagles were observed along the 180 mile census route. Six golden eagles were also observed along the Goosenest census route. In addition, 80 raptors representing eight species were observed along the route. On the west side of the Forest between the Happy Camp/Oak Knoll and Salmon/Scott River Ranger Districts, seven winter census routes were surveyed and sixteen adult bald eagles and three golden eagles were observed. Table 3 shows the combined results of the mid-winter bald eagle counts on the Happy Camp/ Oak Knoll and Salmon/ Scott River Ranger Districts from 2007-2016. The population trend for bald eagles has been stable or improving. Table 3. Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Counts for Happy Camp/Oak Knoll and Salmon/Scott River Ranger Districts: 2007-2016.

Year Number of Eagles Observed 2007 30 2008 30 2009 30 2010 37 2011 11 2012 12 2013 14 2014 11 2015 24 2016 16

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Further Action Required: Successful nesting and winter use indicates that management standards are effective. No further action is required.

A. Peregrine Falcon Objectives: 1) Verify nesting and reproductive success during breeding season. 2) Assess effectiveness of Forest Plan standards and guidelines. Methodology: Field monitoring using spotting scopes and/or binoculars to determine nesting status and reproductive success at known peregrine falcon eyries (or nests). Results: Goosenest Ranger District: No known peregrine falcon eyries on the District. Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District: Four peregrine falcon eyries were monitored on the Happy Camp Ranger District. Three of the four eyries were active and reproductively successful. Salmon/Scott River Ranger District: One peregrine falcon eyrie was monitored with presence of two adults. Nesting was not confirmed and number of fledged young is unknown. No new nest sites were discovered in FY 2016. Peregrine falcons are no longer listed as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act due to a long-term improving trend in the population. Forest Plan standards and guidelines designed to maintain habitat and minimize disturbance to sites have been effective. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

B. Northern Spotted Owl Objective: Assessment of northern spotted owl (NSO) in project areas and within late successional reserves (LSRs). Methodology: Standardized protocols were used for all inventories (USFWS 2012). Monitoring was conducted by Forest Service personnel, with assistance from student interns from the Student Conservation Association, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and private contractors. Results: Goosenest Ranger District: District-wide multiple project areas were surveyed with three non- reproductive pair and 2 single NSO were detected. Eighteen barred owls were detected (12 singles, 2 non- reproductive pairs and 1 reproductive pair). Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District: A total of 93 NSO activity centers in seven project areas were monitored in FY 2016. Survey efforts in FY 2016 included project areas and monitoring known sites within the Westside Fire Recovery areas. A total of thirteen pairs were located over the course of the survey season. Two of these pairs successfully nested. In addition, eleven single NSOs were detected in the survey areas. At least five barred owl activity centers were identified across multiple project areas with no known reproduction. Salmon/Scott River Ranger District: Of the approximate 31 NSO activity centers monitored in eleven project areas, seven sites had a single NSO detected; four sites had non-reproductive pairs; and one site

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

had reproduction confirmed. The remaining nineteen historic activity centers were surveyed and determined to be unoccupied for the FY 2016 field season. Two barred owls were detected in the Petersburg Pine Project area.

Northern Spotted Owl Further Action Required: No further action is required.

C. Northern Goshawk Objective: Determine occupancy of suitable habitat. Methodology: Standardized protocols were used for all inventories. Monitoring was conducted by Forest Service personnel, with assistance from student interns from the Student Conservation Association, USFWS, and private contractors. Results: Goosenest Ranger District: A total of 52 territories across 43,800 acres on the Goosenest were surveyed for northern goshawk. A total of 23,080 acres were surveyed on the east side of the district and a total of 20,800 acres were surveyed on the west side of the district. Two pair and five single goshawks were detected. The remaining territories were assumed to be inactive. Happy Camp/Oak Knoll District: Goshawk surveys were conducted within the Happy Camp Fire, Two- Bit, and Beaver Project areas. Four territories had goshawk activity documented. No nesting was confirmed. Salmon/Scott River Ranger District: Goshawk intensive search surveys were conducted in the East Fork Scott, Whites Fire, and Happy Camp Fire project areas following intensive search protocols. No goshawks were detected. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

D. Willow Flycatcher Objective: Determine occupancy of suitable habitat.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Monitoring and Results: Goosenest Ranger District: No willow flycatcher detections or captures occurred at the Antelope MAPS station. Happy Camp/Oak Knoll and Salmon/Scott River Ranger Districts: Surveys were conducted for willow flycatchers (and other songbirds) at the Seiad Valley PCT1 Constant Effort Mist Netting Station (Table 4). Data gathered at the Seiad Valley station contributes to regional and national songbird monitoring data sets and provides information on site Productivity and long-term trends: Monitoring was conducted primarily by Forest Service personnel with the assistance of Redwood Sciences Lab, Klamath Bird Observatory, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mt. Shasta Audubon, and volunteers from the local community. One single female willow flycatcher was netted and banded in the FY 2016 banding season. Due to extreme wildfires access to the PCT1 banding station was limited during the 2016 field season. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

Table 4. Willow flycatcher captures at Seiad Valley PCT1 Constant Effort Mist Netting Station: 2010‐2016.

Year Number of captures

2010 17

2011 3

2012 3

2013 10

2014 9

2015 1

2016 1

Willow Flycatcher

E. Great Grey Owl Objective: Determine occupancy of suitable habitat. Monitoring and Results: No monitoring was conducted in FY 2016 on the Klamath National Forest because pre-project surveys are not required. Removal of suitable habitat is not proposed by current projects. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

F. Other Monitoring - Migratory Songbirds Objective: Gather baseline data on Neotropical migrants.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Monitoring and Results: Goosenest Ranger District: Antelope Creek MAP Station is run by the Klamath Bird Observatory and the methods follow protocol as described by the Institute of Bird Populations. During the banding season approximately 40 species of migratory birds were captured and numerous other species were observed. Happy Camp/ Oak Knoll and Salmon/Scott Ranger Districts: PCT1 Constant Effort Mist Netting Station: This station is located along the riparian corridor of the mid-Klamath River in Seiad Valley, California, which is used by a diversity of riparian obligate migratory songbirds. This was the 19th year of monitoring for this station, one of the longest running banding stations in the Klamath Basin. The station is run by banding sub-permittee Sam Cuenca through a partnership with Redwood Sciences Lab, Klamath Bird Observatory, USFWS (Yreka Field Office), Quartz Valley Indian Reservation, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Service. In FY 2016 volunteers from the California Conservation Corp, and the Student Conservation Association Program contributed time with banding operations. Methods follow protocol described by the Redwood Sciences Lab and the Institute of Bird Populations.

Female Western Tanager Yellow-breasted Chat

Sharp-shinned Hawk Two Wrentits

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

During the FY 2016, 175 birds were captured including key species such as willow flycatcher, yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, song sparrow, Swainson's and hermit thrush. Data is compiled by the Redwood Sciences Lab and the Klamath Bird Observatory. This monitoring data contributes to the understanding of the importance of songbird use in the Klamath Basin and the Pacific Flyway. Wildfires in 2016 restricted access to the bird monitoring station for part of the 2016 field season.

G. Other Monitoring – Swainson’s hawk and Butte Valley National Grassland avian monitoring Objective: Gather baseline data. Methodology: Monitoring in Butte Valley National Grassland continues as part of an ongoing program that has provided data on Swainson’s hawk survival, reproduction and recruitment for over 20 years. Approximately 120 hawk territories are regularly assessed. During these visits, personnel also monitored several other avian species. Monitoring and Results: In FY 2016, 103 Swainson’s hawk territories were monitored and 94 nests were located in and around Butte Valley, California. Fifteen of the 94 nests were on National Forest System land. Fifteen adults were trapped and two transmitters were deployed. Apparent nest success was 74 percent (70 nests were successful) with 24 nests failing over the season. A total of 157 nestlings were banded, exceeding the previous record of 115 banded in a single season. Average productivity was 1.7 young per nest, an increase of 0.5 over 2014. For unknown reasons phenology of nesting was advanced this year. Banding typically extends into August, this year all banding was completed before August. Data gathered during Butte Valley surveys are contributing to studies on natal dispersal and manuscripts on mating patterns, stable isotopes, and seasonal interactions are being submitted to peer-reviewed journals. Partnerships were established with the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, University of Nevada-Reno and University of California-Davis. Five volunteers contributed over 400 hours to the project in 2014. Over 1600 hours were spent on the Swainson’s hawk project by researchers and volunteers contributed 150 hours assisting with banding and data collection.

Swainson’s Hawk 25

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

H. Other Monitoring – Breeding Bird Survey: The Breeding Bird Survey is a large-scale survey of North American birds. It is a roadside survey, primarily covering the continental United States and southern Canada, although survey routes have recently been initiated in Alaska and northern Mexico. The Breeding Bird Survey was started in 1966 and now contains over 5,000 survey routes which are surveyed in June by experienced birders. The primary objective of the Breeding Bird Survey has been the estimation of population change for bird encountered along habitats surveyed from roadsides. Objective: The mission of the North American Breeding Bird Survey is to provide scientifically credible measures of the status and trends of North American bird populations at continental and regional scales to inform biologically sound conservation and management actions. Determining population trends, relative abundance, and distributions of North American avifauna is critical for identifying conservation priorities, determining appropriate conservation actions, and evaluating those actions. Monitoring and Results: For FY 2016 season the Cecilville Route (#14429) was surveyed on June 10, 2016. The Forest detected approximately 22 species at many locations along the 15-mile route. The highest frequency species detected were western tanager and Steller’s jay.

I. Other Monitoring – Gray Wolf Objective: Gather baseline data for uncommon species. Bait station remote cameras were run in key locations during the FY 2016 field season across the Klamath National Forest. This is a rare species that is potentially re-establishing in Northern California. Little is known of current distribution. Initial detections of the Shasta Pack were recorded on the nearby McCloud Ranger District of the Shasta Trinity NF in 2014 and 2015. In addition, in 2016, howling surveys were conducted from mid–June thru mid-July in specific locations in the Marble Mountain Wilderness. No wolves were detected from these 2016 efforts. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

Fisheries Management A. Sensitive Species Objective: Determine population trends and habitat conditions for steelhead trout and Chinook salmon. Summer-run steelhead and spring Chinook holding census, Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District Methodology: The Forest conducts fisheries census and maintains population trend data for summer steelhead and spring Chinook, which are Forest Service designated sensitive species. Direct observation snorkel surveys were used to collect the census data for all five tributaries to the Klamath River. The population trend data has been collected on a continuous or nearly continuous basis since 1987. In July and August 2016 a total of nine tributaries to the Klamath River were surveyed. The stream reaches surveyed totaled about 73 miles. Results: Summer steelhead were observed in seven of the nine tributaries. Total counts were 147 adults and 325 half-pounders. Spring Chinook salmon were observed in one tributary. The stream reach

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

surveyed where Spring Chinook salmon were observed totaled about 4.2 miles. The total count was 1 adult and 0 jacks. Salmon River Summer-run steelhead holding census, Salmon/Scott River Ranger District Methodology: The Forest, in cooperation with other agencies, completes annual survey (monitoring) of the mainstem, the North Fork, the South Fork, the East Fork of the Salmon River, and Wooley Creek. This data has been actively collected since the late 1960s and is important for the tracking of spring Chinook and summer steelhead trends over time. The census is conducted by direction observation snorkel dives. All stream reaches (about 89 miles) were completed over a three day period (July 26-27, and August 4). Efforts were made possible through the collaboration of about 80 volunteers and other fish biologists (from California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Resource Conservation Districts, local tribes, etc.). Results: The 2016 summer steelhead run totals were 195 adults and 132 half-pounders, which was up from 2015, likely due to the wet winter in 2015-16. Overall, the population trend for the summer steelhead run in the Salmon River has been stable since 2001, declining between 1987 and 2000 due to drought conditions and the 1997 flood. Salmon River Spring-run Chinook holding census, Salmon/ Scott River Ranger District Methodology: The Forest, in cooperation with the Karuk Tribe and other agencies, continued the long- term monitoring of spring Chinook presence in the Salmon River drainage. Although species of primary interest was spring Chinook, steelhead and other anadromous salmonids were tallied as encountered. The Salmon River drainage was divided into reaches, and the reaches surveyed by teams of snorkelers. In July 2016, a total of 89 miles of the Salmon River were surveyed. Of the 89 miles, approximately 63 miles (including North Fork, South Fork, East Fork, and a portion of the mainstream) occur on the Forest. The Six Rivers National Forest completed the mainstem and Wooley Creek (about 28 miles) reaches. Although the primary non-governmental participant was Salmon River Restoration Council, additional crews were present from adjacent National Forests, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Karuk Tribe, and local volunteers. Results: The final count for all reaches was 406 Chinook (370 adults and 36 jacks) and 327 steelhead (195 adults and 132 half-pounders). The 2016 spring Chinook salmon run was up from 2015. Overall, the population trend for the spring Chinook salmon run in the Salmon River has been stable since 2007, fluctuating between 1987 and 2006 due to drought conditions, ocean survival conditions, and the 1997 flood. Salmon River Spring-run Chinook Redd and Carcass Surveys Methodology: This monitoring effort began in 2010 and consists of spawning ground surveys from a cooperative effort between the Forest Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife as lead agency, Salmon River Restoration Council, and the Northern California Resource Center. In addition to providing information to land managers on fish spawning locations, these surveys are used to estimate the total in-river spawner escapement of spring Chinook salmon by the Klamath Fisheries Management Council and the Pacific Fisheries Management Council for determination of harvest allocations for the subsequent year. The upper reaches of the North Fork Salmon and South Fork Salmon Rivers were surveyed twice each week during the spawning run. The Salmon River survey was conducted on every Monday and

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Thursday. Surveys began during the first week of September and continue into late- October. It is important to note that these surveys overlap from one FY into the next. Therefore, for FY16 the totals include those done during the 2015 survey (from 10/1 to 10/22) and the 2016 survey (from 09/19 to 09/29). Redd Surveys: In FY16, redd surveys were conducted on the North Fork Salmon River from mile marker 8 on the North Fork to Mule Bridge Trailhead. Redd surveys were conducted on the South Fork Salmon River from Matthews Creek to Little South Fork Salmon River. Redd surveys were conducted on the East Fork of the South Fork Salmon River from the Shadow Creek confluence to the confluence with the South Fork Salmon River. Redd surveys were conducted on the Little North Fork Salmon River from the Specimen Creek confluence to the confluence with the North Fork Salmon River. Carcass Surveys: Scales, tissue, and otoliths biological samples were collected from carcasses found during the surveys. Since these biological samples are analyzed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, detailed methods for biological sample collection and redd counts are found in the 2016 Fall Chinook Spawning Survey Report6. Scales, tissue and otolith biological samples were collected from carcasses on the North Fork Salmon River, and the South Fork Salmon River. These biological samples are analyzed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to gather information for conducting genetic and disease studies, as well as track the overlap in use location and run timing between fall- and spring-run Chinook. Results: For the North Fork of the Salmon River Spring Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys, the total counts were 23 redds, and 14 lives. For the South Fork of the Salmon River Spring Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys, the total counts were 117 redds, and 178 lives. For the East Fork of the South Fork Salmon River, the total counts were 0 redds, and 2 lives. For the Little North Fork Salmon River, the total counts were 1 redd, and 0 lives. Middle Klamath Fall-run Chinook Spawning Surveys: Salmon River (and tributaries), Scott River (and tributaries), and Middle Klamath River tributaries (Happy Camp/ Oak Knoll RD) Methodology: This monitoring effort began in 1992. It consist of spawning ground surveys from a cooperative effort between the Forest Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife as lead agency, Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe, Quartz Valley Tribe, Salmon River Restoration Council (SRRC), Scott Valley RCD, Middle Klamath Watershed Council, Northern California Resource Center, and local schools and volunteers. In addition to providing information to land managers on fish spawning locations, these surveys are used to estimate the total in-river spawner escapement of fall Chinook salmon by the Klamath Fisheries Management Council and the Pacific Fisheries Management Council for determination of harvest allocations for the subsequent year. The Salmon River, Scott River, and other mid-Klamath River tributaries are surveyed on an annual basis using both carcass mark-recapture and/or redd count techniques. Redd data is used to make spawner estimations on smaller tributaries,

6 USDA Forest Service. 2017. 2016 Fall Chinook Spawning Survey Report. Klamath National Forest. Supervisor’s Office. 28

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

while the mark-recapture technique (and in some cases redd counts) are used for population estimations on the Salmon and Scott Rivers.

The Salmon and Scott Rivers were surveyed twice each week during the spawning run. The Salmon River survey was conducted on every Tuesday and Friday and the Scott River survey was conducted on every Monday and Thursday. Miscellaneous tributary streams were surveyed every Wednesday. The surveys began on October 12 and ended on December 17, 2015. In addition to the spawning ground survey effort on the Scott River a fish counting video weir was operated at roughly river mile 18. The video weir is operated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Klamath River Project and is the primary method for estimating adult abundance in areas of the Scott River upstream of the weir. This video weir on the Scott River has been in operation since 2007. In addition to the video weir described above, fish counting video camcorders (video weirs) have been set up on the Shasta River and Bogus Creek (one video weir on each stream). The video weirs on the Shasta River and Bogus Creek have been in operation since 2001 and 2003, respectively. Salmon River Fall Chinook Salmon Surveys Methodology: Carcass Surveys: Detailed methods for carcass surveys and redd counts are from the 2015 Fall Chinook Spawning Survey Report (USDA Forest Service 2016). Carcass surveys were conducted on the Scott River, North Fork Salmon River, South Fork Salmon River, and Mainstem Salmon River from Forks to Nordheimer using the mark and recapture methodology. This methodology is utilized by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to estimate run size for the Mid Klamath River and its tributaries. Therefore carcass counts are not listed in the tables below for these rivers. In the portion of the lower Mainstem Salmon River, Salmon River tributaries, Scott River tributaries, and the Mid Klamath River tributaries where the mark and recapture methodology was not conducted, carcass counts are listed for those streams in the tables below. Redd Surveys: In FY 2016 (October 12 to December 17, 2015), redd surveys were conducted on the Salmon River from mile marker 12 on the North Fork to the confluence with the South Fork, and from Matthews Creek campground on the South Fork to the confluence with the North Fork. The mainstem Salmon River from Forks to Nordheimer Creek (Reach 4; R4) was surveyed twice weekly; the other three mainstem Salmon reaches (R1, R2, and R3), from Nordheimer to the Klamath River, were surveyed for redds by snorkel diving approximately one time per week. Redd surveys on the Scott River were conducted from the confluence of the East Fork Scott River to the confluence of the Klamath River. However, access to private land excluded some reaches from being surveyed and known poor spawning reaches were not surveyed. Mid-Klamath tributaries surveyed included: Beaver Creek, China Creek, Clear Creek, Dillon Creek, Elk Creek, Fort Goff Creek, Grider Creek, Horse Creek, Independence Creek, Indian Creek, Rock Creek, Rogers Creek, Swillip Creek, Thompson Creek, Ti Creek, and Ukonom Creek. Salmon River tributaries surveyed included: Blackbear Creek, East Fork Knownothing Creek, Knownothing Creek, Little NF Salmon River, Methodist Creek, Nordheimer Creek, Plummer Creek, St Claire Creek, West Fork Knownothing Creek, Whites Gulch, and Wooley Creek. Scott River tributaries surveyed included: Canyon Creek, East Fork Scott River, French Creek, Kelsey Creek, Mill Creek, Shackleford Creek, Sugar Creek, and Tompkins Creek. The mapping occurred the first week of November on both the Scott and Salmon Rivers. Based on surveys from past years, this is typically the approximate peak of the fall Chinook spawning season.

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Results: The Salmon River probably reached peak spawning in early or mid-October, although specific dates cannot be determined because by October 13, 2015 spawning activity had already begun (Figure 3). Overall, the survey effort was affected by the availability of surveyors, weather, and flows. For the Mainstem Salmon River Fall Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys, total counts were 448 redds), 132 carcasses, and 1,574 lives. For the North Fork of the Salmon River Fall Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys, total counts were 179 redds and 513 lives. For the South Fork of the Salmon River Fall Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys, total counts were 644 redds and 671 lives.

Figure 3. Fall Chinook redds observed on the Salmon River in 2015. Data is presented by week, not date, since not all survey days counted new redds. Surveys were conducted on the NF Salmon River from Mile 12 to Forks of Salmon; on SF Salmon River from Matthews Creek to Forks of Salmon; and on the mainstem Salmon River from Forks of Salmon to Nordheimer Creek. Specific areas of the Salmon River display a greater preference for use by spawning fall Chinook. Specifically, GPS and map data indicate the reaches nearest Forks of Salmon show the highest redd density. Reach 4B (mainstem), 5A (SF Salmon), and 9A (NF Salmon) combined had over 55 percent of the total redds in the surveyed area. Amongst all reaches, those with over 100 redds include 4B (mainstem); and 5A (SF Salmon). Using survey data, the Salmon River is estimated to have had 2,070 fall-run Chinook salmon return in the fall of 2015 (Figure 4). Based on long-term tracking data compiled by CDFW, 2015 was below average, ranking 23rd (of 38 years) for run size7.

7 USDA Forest Service. 2016. 2015 Fall Chinook Spawning Survey Report. Appendix A – California Department Fish and Wildlife “MegaTable”. Klamath National Forest. Supervisor’s Office. 30

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Figure 4. Salmon River Run Size Estimates from 1978-2015 Live Chinook were tallied during surveys (Figure 5). As with redds, survey efforts were impacted by high flow and fish observation was affected by number of surveyors, weather, discharge conditions, and surveyor experience. Peak live Chinook were observed on October14th, with subsequent numbers declining within the survey area. Similar to redd results, true peak cannot be definitely determined because fish were already very active upon the spawning grounds at the commencement of surveys.

Figure 5. Observation of fall Chinook during the fall of 2015 Salmon River surveys. 31

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Based on the available data, the Scott River reached the peak of spawning in mid-October for Reach 1 through Reach 8 (Figure 6). The exact date is difficult to determine because, like the Salmon River, spawning was uncharacteristically constant through much of October. Normally, surveys in the Scott River capture a distinct spawning peak in mid- or late-October. This temporal adjustment is likely associated with the low discharge condition: fish may have initially been waiting for fall precipitation to assist with passage over low-water barriers (see next paragraph for further discussion), but when the freshets failed to materialize, female Chinook began to spawn at the point when a given individual could no longer “wait.” Overall survey effort was affected by number of surveyors available, weather, and flows. Scott River Fall Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys resulted in a total of 788 redds and 11,730 lives counted. Distribution of spawning fish in the Scott River drainage was affected by extremely low discharge conditions which extended later into the season than normal. Typically, the majority of spawning in the survey area occurs in Reach 8; and even during “normal” low water years, fish can successfully ascend the river through challenging habitat. However, only a limited number of fish made it to Reach 8 this year, and those which did make it ultimately had upstream progress halted by a beaver dam. While CDFW will sometimes notch dams during low water to assist fish passage, this action was not undertaken in 2015 because of impassible dry channel conditions upstream. Lower in the drainage, the primary culprit restricting fish upmigration occurred in Reach 6 in the form of a rocky cascade which Chinook can normally navigate via jumping or otherwise making their way through the rocks (Figure 7). Fish have been observed, even during a normal water year, having difficulty passing the obstacle, but the degree that it was a barrier at extremely low flows had not been realized fully. Because of this hurdle, and the lack of fall freshets to increase discharge enough to facilitate fish movement past it, Reach 6 ended up with a much greater percentage of the total redd amount than normal, and Reach 8 with a much decreased percentage. Similarly, other reaches, such as Reach 3 and Reach 5, also appear to have exhibited more redds than normal.

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Figure 6. Fall Chinook redds observed and survey effort on the Scott River in 2015. Due to differences in redd tracking between canyon and valley reaches, data displayed is for Reach 1 through Reach 8 only.

Figure 7. Low discharge barrier in Reach 6. (Photo by M. Kneckle, CDFW). The Scott Valley Resource Conservation District (RCD) normally performs redd and carcass surveys upon private property from Reach 12 through Reach 16, as well as several Scott Valley tributaries. These surveys did not occur in 2015 because continuing drought conditions decreased flows sufficiently for the mainstem to disconnect multiple places in the valley. Surface connectivity did not re-establish until early-December storms and after most Chinook had completed spawning. A survey by CDFW through Reach 8 on December 17th confirmed a lack of end-of-season redds, even when river levels had risen sufficiently to allow fish passage over beaver dams.

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Specific areas of the Scott River display a greater preference for use by spawning Fall Chinook. Five years of mapping redds by GPS (with hardcopy map back-ups) is revealing patterns. There are areas which show annual use at both high and low densities, as well as scattered redds which likely represent opportunistic use of habitat which may be locally limited in extent and/or only available under certain discharge conditions.. In 2015, fish distribution was broadly similar to previous years. However, there were notable differences with spawning at some concentrated use areas being lighter than years past, else spatially shifted upstream/downstream. The low water barrier in Reach 6 imparted a major impact in affecting moderate to high use areas. Most explicitly, there was no elevated use anywhere in Reach 8, both due to low numbers of fish which made it to this reach, as well as presence of beaver dams and dry channel. Using survey data and video weir observation, the Scott River is estimated to have had 2,113 Fall Chinook salmon return in 2015 (Figure 8). Based on long-term tracking data compiled by CDWF, 2015 was below average, ranking 34th (of 38 years) for run size.

Figure 8. Scott River fall run size estimates for 1978 to 2015. Dashed line is average over long-term survey period. Live Chinook were tallied during surveys (Figure 9). As with redds, fish observation is affected by number of surveyors, weather, discharge conditions, and surveyor experience. Peak live Chinook was observed in the latter portion of October, with subsequent numbers declining throughout the survey area. Similar to the redd count, number of live Chinook appear to have remained fairly steady through much of October, before declining through November and into December. This observation likely reflects the extended time fish were holding, followed by spawning when fall precipitation did not arrive to facilitate passage over low water barriers.

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Figure 9. Observation of fall Chinook during the 2015 Scott River surveys. Scott River Tributaries Fall Chinook Redd Surveys resulted in a total of 11 redds, and 14 lives. Kelsey Creek was the only Scott River tributary where greater than nine redds were recorded in 2015. Salmon River Tributaries Fall Chinook Salmon Redd Surveys resulted in a total of 81 redds, and 43 lives. Salmon River tributaries that recorded greater than nine redds in 2015 were Nordheimer Creek, and Wooley Creek. MKR tributaries (Happy Camp Area) that recorded greater than nine redds in 2015 were Beaver, Clear, Dillon, Elk, Grider, Indian, and Thompson Creeks. MKR tributaries (Orleans Area) that recorded greater than nine redds in 2015 were Camp. Red Cap, and Ukonom Creeks. Salmon River tributaries and the Mid Klamath River tributaries experienced a clear impact due to low water. Specifically, neither Knownothing Creek, Methodist Creek, Little North Fork Salmon River, nor Horse Creek, recorded fish or redds in 2015. The mouth of many Salmon River and Mid Klamath River tributaries within the survey area possess a steep, often cascading, approach through a delta which are observed to be difficult for fish to ascend during low water. This is particularly true for Methodist Creek and Little North Fork Salmon River. A comparison can be made between 2014 and 2015. Although 2014 began the season similar to 2015 in regards to very low water and inaccessible tributaries, October storms arrived at the perfect mid-season time for fish to take advantage of the subsequent increase in discharge to move into tributaries in higher numbers than usual, and in some cases migrating further upstream than is customarily observed. Conversely, 2015 never included a sufficiently significant event that allowed fish to circumvent low-water confluence barriers, and, therefore, these streams were never utilized. In contrast, Nordheimer Creek, with its easily entered mouth, was used by spawning Fall Chinook despite low discharge conditions.

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The number of Klamath River fall Chinook salmon returning to the Klamath River Basin in fall 2015 is estimated on Table 5 (includes both total number of natural spawner escapement and number of fish taken by recreational and tribal harvest)8. Table 5. Fall Chinook Salmon returning to the Klamath River Basin

Age Count Percent of Total Run 2 6,097 7.3 3 36,702 43.8 4 33,914 40.4 5 7,133 8.5 Total: 83,846 100 For more information on survey results, see Appendix D of the Klamath River Fall Chinook Salmon Age-Specific Escapement, River Harvest, and Run Size Estimates, 2015 Run by the Klamath River Technical Team, dated 22 February 2016. Further Action Required: Continue coordination with California Department of Fish and Wildlife for the annual Fall Chinook Salmon Spawning Ground Surveys. Continue coordination with Salmon River Restoration Council for the annual Salmon River Spring-run Chinook holding census and Spring-run Chinook Spawning Ground Surveys. Continue conducting the summer-run steelhead and spring Chinook holding census on Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District. B. Management Indicator Species Objective: Determine population trends and relationship to habitat changes for steelhead trout and rainbow trout. Methodology: Monitoring for steelhead trout is covered under Sensitive Species monitoring (above). California Department of Fish and Wildlife is conducting a field study of fish, amphibians, and reptiles in the High Mountain Lake surveys of the Klamath, Cascade, and Sierra Nevada mountains. The multiyear project, begun in 1995, has collected data on three fourths of the Sierra Nevada’s 10,000 high mountain lakes, and on nearly all high mountain lakes in the Klamath and Cascade mountains of California9. Habitat changes are measured through the Aquatic and Riparian Effectiveness Monitoring Plan (AREMP) program and the Klamath National Forest has an intensive watershed condition monitoring program for ‘managed’ and ‘reference’ streams organized through the Klamath National Forest hydrology department in coordination with Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) compliance.

8 Klamath River Fall Chinook Salmon Age-Specific Escapement, River Harvest, and Run Size Estimates, 2015 Run by the Klamath River Technical Team dated 22 February 2016 9 (Chapter 4 in http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/pubnotice/hatchery/)

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Results: The AREMP program has found an overall positive trend in watershed conditions over the last 20 years (final report is pending). Monitoring populations of the resident form of rainbow trout is confounded by potential impacts from 1) fish stocking operations conducted by private interests and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and 2) the targeting of rainbow trout common in recreational fishing. The number of high mountain lakes stocked with hatchery (resident rainbow) trout by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has been reduced since 2008 and now no hatchery (resident rainbow) trout are stocked within the currently managed range of the Southern Oregon/Northern California coho salmon (Figures 4‐36 and 4‐34 respectively in the January 2010 Environmental Impact Report (EIR)), and one location for the Klamath Mountains Province (KMP) steelhead10. Salmon and steelhead are stocked at five locations within the KMP steelhead distinct population segment (DPS) in the Klamath and Trinity River basins (Figure 4‐36 of the same January 2010 EIR). Naturally produced steelhead juveniles may be preyed on by hatchery steelhead that may be residualizing in the Klamath and Trinity Rivers below Iron Gate and Trinity River Hatcheries. Residualization of hatchery steelhead and predation on naturally produced salmon and steelhead fry has been demonstrated in the Trinity River, representing a potential threat to natural salmon and steelhead populations. Based on the time and size at release, hatchery coho salmon yearlings may also prey on naturally produced steelhead fry. The hatchery programs have the potential to cause significant impact to the survival of wild juvenile salmon and steelhead. Rainbow trout have been observed preying upon juvenile steelhead; additionally, their diets and habitat preferences overlap. Therefore, hatchery rainbow trout may prey upon native steelhead or compete with them for rearing and spawning habitat. According to the January 2010 EIR prepared by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the “implications of competitive interactions between hatchery and wild fish may be particularly serious for steelhead because the freshwater environment probably limits production.” There is also a potential for hatchery trout to compete for spawning sites with native steelhead, due to overlapping spawn times and spawning habitat preferences. These influences on the population make habitat monitoring a more reliable system of tracking trends for fish Management Indicator Species. Further Action Required: Coordinate with California Department of Fish and Wildlife on their ongoing monitoring, continue coordination with AREMP. C. Fisheries Management Objective: Determine effectiveness of Forest Plan standards and guidelines in meeting objectives. Methodology: The Northwest Forest Plan, a management strategy applied to 24 million acres of federal land in the Pacific Northwest, was approved in 1994 and incorporated into the Forest’s 1995 Forest Plan. The Northwest Forest Plan’s Aquatic Conservation Strategy that requires the protection, restoration, and monitoring of aquatic ecosystems under the Plan’s jurisdiction was incorporated. The AREMP program11 was developed to fulfill the monitoring component of the strategy. Monitoring is conducted

10 California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Resources, Final Hatchery and Stocking Program, Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement 4-73 January 2010 11 http://www.reo.gov/monitoring/reports/watershed-reports-publications.shtml, 37

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at the subwatershed scale (US Geologic Survey 6th-field hydrologic unit). These sub-watersheds are approximately 10,000-40,000 acres in size. In 2015 invasive aquatic species were also monitored. Results: The AREMP monitoring reflects the effectiveness of standards and guidelines related to aquatic systems, including the implementation of the Aquatic Conservation Strategy identified in the Forest Plan, as adopted from the Northwest Forest Plan Record of Decision. The AREMP monitoring effort determines present watershed condition every five years for every 6th-field watershed (with greater than 25 percent federal ownership along the stream length) based on upslope and riparian data derived from GIS layers and satellite imagery. In-channel attributes are also measured each year in a subset of watersheds to supplement the watershed condition assessments and validate the models used to assess stream condition. AREMP also tracks changes in watershed condition over time; and reports on the Northwest Forest Plan’s effectiveness across the Northwest Forest Plan area. AREMP Data for the 2016 field season (June through September) is not available at this time. No reports for the 2016 field season have been posted to the web site listed below. http://www.reo.gov/monitoring/reports/watershed-reports-publications.shtml Further Action Required: None. D. Other Monitoring – Klamath River Water Temperature Objective: Monitoring water temperature Methodology: In conjunction with information from the water temperature monitoring program, streamflow monitoring can be used to model and better understand thermodynamics in the Klamath River. This can be used to plan fisheries restoration projects such as restoration, enhancement, and creation of cold-water summer thermal refugia that facilitate salmon and steelhead survival in hot periods when water quality in the Klamath River becomes sub-optimum or lethal for salmonids. Seven sites on the Klamath River and 112 sites on Klamath River tributaries were surveyed in 2016. Results: The resultant data will be analyzed to establish existing baseline aquatic habitat conditions, to determine fish species distribution, and to estimate fish species abundance. Stream survey information will be used to plan and assess the effects of restoration forestry, will be used to plan and assess effects of upslope watershed restoration, and will be used to plan and assess effects of fisheries restoration projects. Further Action Required: None. E. Other Monitoring – Clean Water Act, TMDL Objective: Collect data to determine stream conditions for reference and managed streams to meet Clean Water Act-TMDL conditions. Monitoring was also done as part of the AREMP watershed condition monitoring for the Northwest Forest Plan area. Monitoring: Techniques used were developed with the California Water Quality Control Board staff to measure sediment, temperature, shade values, and V*12 and included the use of a specialized camera

12 Stream Monitoring Field Guide: Protocols and Methods. USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region. Klamath National Forest. November 2009 38

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and Hobo-temp data loggers. There are 154 Hobo temp sites monitored in 2016 as part of this project. Stream temperature was monitored in a network of 86 watersheds representing most of the major tributaries on the Forest. Reference conditions were monitored in 13 minimally disturbed watersheds that represent the natural background condition. The Forest monitored sampled areas with well-mixed stream temperatures in order to better understand the overall watershed condition. Temperatures in thermal refugia at the reach scale were not measured. Results: Data was provided to evaluate listing or delisting of streams under the Clean Water Act. There are 20 watersheds on the Forest that have altered shade due to human-caused disturbance and stream temperatures higher than the Water Quality Control Board threshold for support of beneficial use for salmonids. In these streams the objectives for temperature are not attained. Watersheds with human- caused shade loss of less than 0.1 percent have a negligible effect on stream temperature at the watershed scale. The remaining 68 watersheds appear to meet the temperature objectives of the Basin Plan. All of these streams have either no human-caused alteration of stream shade, or any alteration has not reduced stream temperatures below the threshold required to support beneficial uses. In no instances have stream temperatures increased by more than the 5 degrees F (2.8 degrees C) allowed in the Basin Plan temperature objective. The natural receiving temperature of many streams on the Forest is warmer than the thresholds used by the Water Quality Control Board to assess adverse effects to beneficial uses for salmonids. Nearly half of the reference streams on the Forest exceed the 16 degrees C threshold identified for support of beneficial uses for adult salmonid migration and non-core juvenile rearing. However, salmon are still occupying these streams. Some researchers suggest that salmon in the Klamath River system are adapted to naturally warmer temperatures. Further Action Required: None. Visual Resource Management

A. Visual Condition and Scenic Character Objective: To determine the trends of Forest-wide Visual Condition and Scenic Character every 10 years. Visual Condition in this report refers to the degree of scenery disturbance perceived by typical forest visitors. Scenic Character in this report refers to the degree of ecologically established scenic identity perceived by people who intentionally observe the Forest. “Scenery” and “Scenic Character” are current “best science” terms for “Visual Resource” and “Landscape Character” as applied in the 1995 Forest Plan. Methodology: In FY 2016, informal observation of visual condition and scenic character occurred during 5 field days, while traveling to and evaluating several Forest projects across the Forest. This informal observation has occurred continuously even before the Forest Plan, primarily on vegetation manipulation project areas as viewed from the Forest Plan’s designated sensitive roads, rivers, trails and recreation settings. Field photography of Visual Condition and Scenic Character occasionally accompanies these informal observations. This report also quantifies adverse vegetation conditions that have impaired Scenic Character, using nationally established LANDFIRE “Vegetation Departure” data that is consistent with established Forest-level wildfire history. Consistent with Standard and Guideline 11-4, Forest projects and recent Forest vegetative treatment accomplishment records have also been evaluated to determine their

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effectiveness in perpetuating the Forest’s ecologically-established Scenic Character. Results: Informal observations and the data described above tend to confirm two Forest-wide trends: 1) Improving Visual Condition (fewer obvious scenery disturbances); 2) Declining Scenic Character (loss or impairment of ecologically-established scenic vegetation attributes). Visual Condition, the degree of scenery disturbance perceived by the average person has steadily improved. This is largely due to an overall Forest program shift from block-shaped regeneration harvesting and road-associated visual disturbances (this forestry trend began post World War II and peaked between 1970 and 1990), to silvicultural prescriptions based on thinning and understory fuels reduction. The dynamic process of revegetation has softened the visual contrasts over the past 26 years at the landscape scale. Scenic Character, the ecologically-established scenic identity perceived by people who intentionally observe the Forest, has declined through changes in vegetation. For at least 100 years, wildfire suppression has widely interrupted historic wildfire influences that shaped and maintained Forest vegetation structure and diversity. Disruption of natural wildfire cycles has resulted in much of the Forest appearing uncharacteristically dense, with reduced bole diameters and less vegetative structural diversity (Figure 10). As a result, Forest vegetation has departed from ecologically-established conditions, (Figure 11).

Figure 10. Example of how the disruption of historic wildfire cycles has resulted in much of the Forest appearing uncharacteristically dense with small vegetation and a lack of historic scenic variety. Here, white fir (Abies concolor) exists at high densities on higher elevations of the Goosenest Ranger District.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Figure 11. Example post-treatment depicting a trend toward a more ecologically established Scenic Character, with more open forest conditions. (Goosenest Ranger District).

Impairment to the Forest’s vegetative Scenic Character attributes is quantified in this report as a “Vegetation Departure” from historic/reference ecosystem conditions (LANDFIRE Fire Regime Condition Class/FRCC inventory, 2008). This Vegetation Departure analysis measured each acre of the Forest for its degree of change from an historic, ecologically-established (pre-European contact) “reference condition,” in terms of vegetative species, seral stage/size and stand density. The Klamath National Forest Vegetation Departure Map shows that 62 percent of the Forest displays a “High Departure” from historic, ecologically established vegetation conditions; 33 percent as “Moderate Departure”; and only five percent largely reflects historic vegetation conditions, as “Low Departure” (Figure 12).

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Figure 12. Forest departure from its historic, ecologically established vegetation condition. In recent years (FY 2009-2016) Forest ecosystem restoration projects have reversed vegetation and Scenic Character conditions within relatively small, ecologically strategic areas (approximately one percent of the Forest’s total acreage each year, per national natural resource data) (Figure 13). Restorative vegetation benefits of such projects and wildfires tend to last for at least 10 years. Therefore, it is estimated that each decade approximately 20 percent of the Forest could receive vegetation benefits that at least partially restore Scenic Character towards historic, ecologically established conditions (two percent of the Forest enhanced each year by projects and wildfires x 10 years each decade). Climate change also impacts vegetative Scenic Character attributes through local droughts that reduce availability of essential moisture and nutrients, cause wildfires to exceed historic size and severity. Scenic Character within untreated and unburned areas of the Forest will continue to display impaired vegetation attributes and evolve subject to other influences such as climate, insects, disease.

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Figure 13. Post-treatment photo, resulting in open viewsheds, large tree character, a more resilient forest ecosystem, and a future visual environment that will support increased vegetative diversity (Salmon/Scott River Ranger District). Further Action Required: Formal monitoring of Visual Condition and Scenic Character trends as specified in Chapter 5 of the Forest Plan, Table 5-1, has not been performed for this report and it will be determined if this level of monitoring is needed for next year’s report. Overall it appears that Visual Condition/disturbance trends are improving and remain consistent with Forest Plan goals and direction; however, the Westside Fire Complex and resulting timber salvage projects should be monitored for compliance and effectiveness in the future. The adverse Scenic Character trend can be effectively monitored through Forest-level analysis similar to Vegetation Departure described above, using a best- science ecological baseline to measure Forest Scenic Character condition (apply and adapt FRCC “Vegetation Departure”, or similar), in combination with project level information. Scenery information provided in this report, in addition to known Forest and project level information, is sufficient to direct Forest Programs and Projects, meet Forest Plan requirements, and fulfill the Forest’s Scenery conservation responsibilities. As described above, Visual Condition and Scenic Character can be gradually improved through program and project activities designed to increase both scenic quality and ecological resilience.

B. Visual Quality Objectives Objective: Determine compliance with Forest Plan Visual Quality Objectives every three to five years.

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Methodology: Informal monitoring of compliance with Visual Quality Objectives is typically performed during travel across the Forest and as part of new project analyzes. These informal observations took place during over 5 field days in FY 2016, focusing on completed vegetation manipulation project effects as viewed from the Forest Plan’s designated sensitive roads, rivers, trails and recreation settings. Typically, these informal observations often include site visits and field photography. Results: Based upon the informal monitoring described above, the frequency of project compliance of Forest Plan Visual Quality Objectives appears to be high. Further Action Required: Since informal monitoring indicates a general trend towards Forest Plan Visual Quality Objective compliance, formal monitoring of Visual Quality Objective compliance is not necessary and will not be performed. Informal monitoring of Forest Plan Visual Quality Objective compliance, with the potential for formal monitoring will continue in 2017 and beyond. Wilderness Objective: Use the Limits of Acceptable Change concept to refine future wilderness management direction. Methodology: Wilderness monitoring on National Forest lands is now conducted within the framework of Wilderness Stewardship Performance (WSP). This national program began in 2015 with a goal of establishing a wilderness character baseline for each wilderness, and as the measure of how well Forests are protecting wilderness character. WSP related monitoring is focused on describing a wilderness character baseline, with one element, invasive weeds, conducive to effectiveness monitoring. The Forest has selected three sets of Wilderness stewardship performance elements, one for the Marble Mountains and Russian Wildernesses, a second for the Siskiyou Wilderness, and the third for the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Several of the wilderness stewardship performance elements are applicable to the limits of acceptable change concept. Monitoring of these elements will help inform the development of standards and guidelines during Forest Plan revision. In the Marble Mountains and Russian Wilderness, three types of monitoring have been conducted that pertain to the natural and undeveloped qualities of wilderness character. In 2015, an informal survey of trails, trailhead, and campsites was conducted to determine presence of non-native invasive weeds. These surveys augmented the annual effectiveness monitoring of hand-pulling treatments of an invasive weed population within one drainage. In 2016, monitoring of range allotments included documentation of range improvements and cow camp structures, documentation of potential heritage resources, and mapping the location of stock drive trails. Range staff conducted utilization monitoring and Multiple Indicator Monitoring for four of the priority allotments during 2016. Range staff annually conduct routine utilization and multiple indicator monitoring on all active allotments within both wildernesses. In 2017, the location and condition of user created trails was surveyed, which helps assess the degree of visitor impacts to the natural quality. As part of the user trail survey, campsite conditions in key areas were reassessed, and will be compared to the conditions documents during a wilderness-wide campsite inventory that was conducted in 2009-2010.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

In the Siskiyou Wilderness, Six Rivers National Forest staff conducted effectiveness monitoring of invasive weed treatments in sites that included the Klamath National Forest portion of the wilderness. Wilderness Stewardship Performance related work in the Trinity Alps Wilderness did not include monitoring activities. Results: Observations have enabled Forest wilderness managers to identify needs and develop strategies to protect wilderness character. The Limits of Acceptable Change and the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum management tools identified in the Forest Plan are in need of refinement during Forest Plan revision to better support the achievement of desired wilderness conditions. Further Action Required: None required. Monitoring in FY 2018 is expected to include solitude monitoring in the Klamath National Forest portion of the Trinity Alps. Lands Program Management Objective: Determine if land adjustments have increased administrative efficiency, and whether Forest outputs are adversely affected. Methodology: Since FY 2002, the Forest has acquired 840 acres in five parcels. No parcels were acquired in FY 2016. Results: About 4.5 miles of Forest boundary has been eliminated since FY 2002, reducing the total miles of landline that requiring location and posting. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Timber Management

A. Growth and Yield Projections Objective: Determine if growth and yield projections for silvicultural prescriptions are occurring as projected. Methodology: The Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory maps and monitors vegetation throughout the Region. Lab personnel use baseline inventory maps in conjunction with inventory plots to assess the vegetation resources and associated uses such as forest health, timber volume and growth, wildlife habitats, old growth forests, watershed conditions, and surface fuel mapping. The KNF was inventoried in 2004 and updates were done in 2007 using Landsat photos and validated by the Province Ecologist. Results: Growth projections are in line with Forest Plan expectations. Further Action Required: None.

B. Wildland Fire Effects on Plantations Objective: Determine average rate of loss of plantations to wildland fire. Methodology: Locations of plantations from FACTS were overlaid with fire boundaries of wildfires that burned in 2016. A silviculturist visited the fire area in the fall of 2016 and mapped the fire effects to

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both natural stands and plantation. That information was used to plan the reforestation needs following the fire. Results: Approximately 534 acres within 28 plantations were impacted by the Gap Fire. Portions of these plantations (260 acres) burned at low severity (0-25 percent basal area loss). Within the 534 acres, 274 acres of plantations were significantly impacted by moderate to high severity fire with few of the trees within these areas surviving. Further Action Required: Most plantations affected by moderate to high severity fire will be reforested. Areas with poor site quality and historical brush and hardwood stands will not be reforested. Site preparation for planting will begin in 2018 and continue through 2020. The Forest is currently completing the Horse Creek environmental analysis for areas affected by the Gap Fire. Under analysis is approximately 460 acres of site preparation and reforestation without salvage (plantations and small diameter natural stands) and 1,680 acres of site preparation, reforestation after salvage harvesting.

C. Dispersal of Harvest Openings Objective: Ensure that spacing of harvest openings conforms to Regional policy and Forest Plan direction. Methodology: The Forest Plan modeled Green Tree Retention (GTR) harvest as the primary silvicultural system to be implemented on the KNF. This prescription has been used only sparingly on the forest since the adoption of the Plan. Understory thinning, the primary prescription for timber harvest, does not create openings in the forest canopy. Large openings due to timber harvest are rare and spacing is not an issue. For this reason, no monitoring has been conducted. Results: N/A Further Action Required: None.

D. Timber Stand Improvement Objective: Determine success of release and stand improvement practices to meet desired future condition. Methodology: The Forest pre-commercially thinned 3,901 acres of wild stands and plantations combined and released 1,482 acres of plantations in 2016. These stands were inspected to validate that the prescriptions were appropriately applied. Monitoring consisted of placing plots in many of the stands and recording spacing of the trees and the amount of competing vegetation removed. Other stands were inspected by a visual walk-through method to determine if treatments met standards. The stands take a number of years to respond to the treatments after being suppressed for a period of time, so immediate measurement of the plantations would not yield an increase in height or diameter growth. Results: 100 percent of treated stands met the required standards. Further Action Required: None.

E. Other Monitoring Efforts – Timber Marking, Reforestation Success, and Sale Implementation Timber marking is reviewed by Quality Control Group check cruiser for conformance with Timber Theft Plan. Reforestation success was monitored through survival surveys and certification of planted 46

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

stands. Post-sale treatments required under contract were monitored by sale administration personnel and reviewed by program staff from the Supervisor’s Office.

F. Other Monitoring Efforts – Site Preparation and Reforestation Targets In 2016, the Klamath planted 2,250 acres. Of the 2,250 acres, 652 acres were planted within the Salmon fire. Species planted on the Salmon fire included ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, sugar pine, incense cedar, Shasta red fir and white fir. First year survival ranged between 30 to 60 percent for all species except white fir at 13 percent survival. 1,598 acres were planted on the Beaver and Happy Camp Complex fires. These fires were analyzed under the Westside Fire Recovery EIS. Administrative processes caused a delay of planting these acres until late spring. These acres had 5 percent survival. Planting occurred too late for successful planting. There is no 3rd year survival information as there was no planting in 2014.

G. Other Monitoring Efforts – Timber Targets Allowable Sale Quantity (ASQ), reforestation, and timber stand improvement activity accomplishments are derived from data in the Planned Timber Sale Accomplishment Report, the Forest Service Activity Tracking System, and the yearly Plantation Survival Report. The Forest offered and awarded about 118,011 hundred cubic feet of timber and convertible products in FY 2016. This exceeded the assigned target of 50,000 hundred cubic feet by about 58 percent. The volume offered for sale includes sawlogs, biomass, posts, poles and firewood produced through a combination of forest management activities, including thinning, salvage, fuelwood and post and pole cutting. The majority of the timber offered and awarded was salvage sales within the Westside Fire Recovery project. These salvage sales reduced fuels on thousands of acres and reduced hazards on over 200 miles of roads. The annual reforestation program fluctuates, dependent largely on wildfire and post-fire salvage and fuels treatment. Planting and subsequent release on burned sites where fire-killed trees are not removed continue to pose a management challenge; The immediate threat of falling trees and the development of substantial fuel loading as the result of fallen fire-killed vegetation render many of these sites impractical to manage. An additional 3,800 acres is scheduled for reforestation on the Salmon Complex and fires within the Westside Fire Recovery project in 2018. The Little Deer fire reforested 1,730 acres in 2017.

H. Other Monitoring Efforts – Loss of trees to wildfire Region 5 annually tracks the acreage where trees have been lost to wildfires, concentrating on fires that burn more than 1,000 acres of National Forest forestland. There was one fires/complex’s in this size category on the KNF in 2016, the Gap Fire which burned a total of 33,000 acres of which 21,580 acres were on National Forest Lands. A summary of past monitoring efforts is located on the web at http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/r5/landmanagement/resourcemanagement. Fire Management Objectives: Primary objective is to meet Fire Fighter Line Production Capability, and to assure there is compliance of the initial attack’s 90th percentile objective. Methodology: The Forest analyzed the number of fire starts and escapes.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Results: In 2016, the Klamath National Forest had a total of 37 wildfires, of which 18 were started by lightning. The total acres burned in 2016 was 33,593 acres. The Gap Fire was the largest fire of the season and started on August 27. It was human caused and eventually grew to 30,696 acres. The Pony Fire was a lightning fire detected on June 7, and eventually grew to 2,860 acres. Further Action Required: No further action is required

A. Prescribed Fire and Fuels Management Program Objectives: Determine effectiveness of prescribed burn program in reducing wildfire effects. Monitor conditions of fire severity within a range of vegetation types. Monitoring and Results: For FY 2016, the assigned Forest target for hazardous fuels reduction was 20,770 acres. The Forest exceeded target, accomplishing 41,594 acres. Of the accomplished target, 18,767 acres were accomplished through claiming low severity wildfire acres as treatment, and 22,867 target acres were accomplished through prescribed burning and other fuels treatments. Of the Forest treatments accomplished, approximately 75 percent were located within areas considered as Wildland Urban Interface. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

B. Other Monitoring Efforts - Fire Ecology The Forest, in coordination with the Humboldt State University, has developed a visualization model for restoration scenarios across the Forest. The results are being used to visually see restoration type treatments at a landscape scale. In addition, Pennsylvania State University is looking at the interactions between inversions and fire severity. Peer reviewed scientific papers is expected from this project. The Forest has also completed treatment effectiveness monitoring on numerous projects, including prescribed burns. We are currently using the Firemon-Feat Integration ecological monitoring tool. The Forest is using this program in order to create a cooperate database for fire monitoring, which will standardize the collection, analysis, and results of Forest monitoring data. The Forest continues to look into research and monitoring opportunities for the Sugar Creek Research Natural Area, which contains the most diverse coniferous forest in the world. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Range Management

A. Range Health Objective: Determine vegetative ecological condition and trend. Methodology: Range health and forage availability are monitored through a combination of methods that look at utilization, riparian condition, and vegetative trend. Monitoring methods include Landscape Appearance, Best Management Practices, Multiple Indicator Monitoring, Photo Points, Stubble Height, and Rooted Frequency. All these methods were used to evaluate conditions on key areas (sites that represent allotment conditions, or are indicators of a specific habitat type, such as riparian reserves). In FY 2016 nine frequency plots were reread; three on the Scott River Ranger District and six on the

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Goosenest Ranger District. Six Multiple Indicator Monitoring plot were read, including one that was a new install; two on the Salmon River Ranger District and four within the Scott River Ranger District. Best Management Practices Effectiveness Program evaluations were conducted on four allotments. Results: Range health (ecological condition) on permitted allotments is generally good, with a stable or upward trend on most sites. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

A. Permitted Animal Unit Months Objective: Compare permitted to Forest Plan projected Animal Unit Months (AUMs). Methodology: The Forest Plan projected that the Forest would support 34,000 AUMs. Actual use is tracked by billing documents and allotment inspections. Results: Permitted use was 20,251 AUMs with an actual use of 20,881 AUMS. Further Action Required: The Forest needs to complete environmental analyses on several vacant allotments prior to permitting additional AUMs in order to bring the permitted or actual use closer to projected Forest Plan levels.

B. Wild Horse Management Objective: Determine number of wild horses and territory expansion. Methodology: None conducted. Population numbers are estimates based on observation, with adjustments made using knowledge of history of herd dynamics and removal efforts. Results: Current estimates are 130-150 head for McGavin Peak (target of zero animals) and 50-75 head for Three Sisters (target of 20 animals). No horses were removed in FY 2016. Further Action Required: Removal of horses to meet target populations is subject to availability of funding and scheduling with the Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management. Plans to consult with permittees to develop a historical context for the herd numbers are planned for 2017.

C. Riparian Health Objective: Assure Annual Operating Instructions contain riparian objectives and Forest Plan standards and guidelines are being met. Methodology: Allotment Management Plans, Grazing Permits, and Annual Operating Instructions were reviewed to determine whether Aquatic Conservation Strategy and riparian health objectives have been included. Results: All documents reviewed had incorporated guidelines to address Aquatic Conservation Strategy and riparian health objectives. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

D. Forage Availability Objective: Determine compliance with Forest Plan standards and guidelines for forage utilization.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Monitoring: The Forest has a total of 47 allotments, of which 39 were active in FY 2016. Three allotments were in partial or full non-use for the grazing season. On the active allotments, 89 key areas and 4 non-key areas were monitored on 27 different allotments. Results: Of the 93 monitored areas, 91 met resource standards (see Table 6). Resource standards were not met on two individual plots on two allotments. In each case, a Forest Service range specialist met with the permittee to resolve the situation. Annual Operating Instructions were adjusted in all cases. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

E. Implementing Range Project Decisions Objective: Ensure that range project decisions include standards and guidelines and that the standards are implemented. Monitoring: The Forest worked on two range projects consisting of four allotments during this fiscal year. Decisions are anticipated for two of the allotments in FY 2017. Results: Decisions will incorporate Forest Plan standards and guidelines. To date, the Forest has completed analyses and made decisions on 35 of 45 allotments, all of which have incorporated Forest Plan standards and guidelines into the Allotment Management Plans and Annual Operating Instructions. Further Action Required: No further action is required.

F. Noxious Weeds See the Noxious Weeds section of this report for information.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Table 6. Forest Range Monitoring Data Summary for FY 201613 # Not Results AOI # of # of Key # of Non- CAMP # Met Meeting shared P. Co- Comp- Allotment Key Areas Key Areas M. w/ P. Data Resource Resource w/ P. operation liance Name Areas Monitored Monitored Method Y / N Source Standards Standards Y/N Y / N Y / N Actions Taken or Remarks Ball Mountain- Kuck’s 7 5 0 LA,SH N FS 5 0 Y Y Y Bogus 4 0 0 LA,SH N FS Early snow, not monitored Bray 8 5 0 LA Y FS,P 5 0 Y Y Y Butte Could not locate 1 pt. may have Valley NG 17 16 0 LA N FS 16 0 Y Y Y been damaged or stolen Deer Mountain 5 3 0 LA N FS 3 0 Y Y Y 2 pts not read/no use in area Dry Lake 6 6 0 LA N FS 6 0 Y Y Y East Red Rock 11 7 0 LA N FS 6 1 Y Y Y other points in non-use

Haight Mountain 8 0 0 LA,SH N FS Early snow, not monitored Horsethief 8 2 0 LA N FS 2 0 Y Y Y plots not monitored due to non-use McGavin Peak 4 0 0 LA N FS Early snow, not monitored Mount Hebron 3 3 0 LA N FS 3 0 Y Y Y

13 The information presented in Table 7 is summary data (only) from a larger data set. Acronyms and abbreviations are defined as follows: # (number), AOI (Annual Operating Instructions), CAMP (Cooperative Allotment Monitoring Plan), FS (Forest Service), BMP (Best Management Practices Effectiveness), LA (Landscape Appearance - Herbaceous),LAB (Landscape Appearance - Browse), M (Monitoring), MIM (multiple indicator monitoring, all annual indicators monitored), N (no), NG (National Grassland), OC (ocular), P (permittee), PVT (private), S (South), SH (Stubble Height), Y (yes), N (no), and N/A (not applicable). 51

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

# Not Results AOI # of # of Key # of Non- CAMP # Met Meeting shared P. Co- Comp- Allotment Key Areas Key Areas M. w/ P. Data Resource Resource w/ P. operation liance Name Areas Monitored Monitored Method Y / N Source Standards Standards Y/N Y / N Y / N Actions Taken or Remarks Orr Lake 6 1 0 LA N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Panther/B all Mtn 4 0 0 LA N FS Early snow, not monitored Red Rock 7 4 0 LA N FS 4 0 Y Y Y

Shafter 4 3 0 LA N FS 3 0 Y Y Y Three Sisters 10 9 0 LA N FS 9 0 Y Y Y Readiness completed, no other Ash Creek 0 0 0 N FS N/A N/A Y Y Y monitong required Big Flat 4 0 0 VACANT Big Meadows 2 2 0 LA Y FS, P 2 0 Y Y Y

Big Ridge 6 0 0 Y P Early snow, not monitored Boulder Creek 4 0 0 N FS Early snow, not monitored Carter Meadows 4 2 0 LA N FS 2 0 Y Y Y Cuddihy 3 0 0 VACANT

Readiness completed, no other Deadwood 0 0 0 N FS Y Y Y monitong required

Dry Lake (west- LA, BMP attempted but snow prevented side) 3 1 0 BMP N FS 1 0 Y Y Y adequate assessment

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

# Not Results AOI # of # of Key # of Non- CAMP # Met Meeting shared P. Co- Comp- Allotment Key Areas Key Areas M. w/ P. Data Resource Resource w/ P. operation liance Name Areas Monitored Monitored Method Y / N Source Standards Standards Y/N Y / N Y / N Actions Taken or Remarks LA, Eagle LAB, Creek 4 2 0 BMP N FS 1 1 Y Y N AOI changed for next year East Beaver 4 0 0 N FS Early snow, not monitored East Fork 2 1 1 LA N FS 2 0 Y Y Y Etna LA, Creek 3 2 0 BMP N FS 2 0 Y Y Y Granite/Fo x 3 0 0 VACANT

Grouse Creek 2 1 0 LA N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Readiness completed, no other Hornbrook 0 0 0 N FS N/A N/A Y Y Y monitong required Horse Creek 3 1 0 LA N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Indian Creek 1 1 0 LA N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Kidder Creek 3 0 0 VACANT Lake Mountain 1 0 0 N FS Nonuse Little North Fork 4 1 0 MIM N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Marble LA, Valley 2 1 0 BMP N FS 1 0 Y Y Y Middle Tompkins 4 0 0 VACANT Mill Creek 4 4 0 LA, MIM N FS 4 0 Y Y Y

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

# Not Results AOI # of # of Key # of Non- CAMP # Met Meeting shared P. Co- Comp- Allotment Key Areas Key Areas M. w/ P. Data Resource Resource w/ P. operation liance Name Areas Monitored Monitored Method Y / N Source Standards Standards Y/N Y / N Y / N Actions Taken or Remarks Red Rock Valley 3 0 0 N FS Early snow, not monitored S. Klamath 2 0 0 VACANT Seiad Johnny 2 0 0 VACANT Shacklefor d 4 2 1 LA, MIM N FS 3 0 Y Y Y LA, Shelly LAB, Meadows 3 3 1 MIM N FS 4 0 Y Y Y South Fork Saloon 4 0 0 VACANT South Russian 3 1 1 LA N FS 2 0 Y Y Y TOTALS 199 89 4 3 91 2 30 30 29

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Noxious Weeds Objective: Determine if noxious weeds have increased to damaging levels. The Klamath National Forest noxious weed and non-native invasive plant program follows National direction with six main emphasis areas. A. Early Detection/Rapid Response Methodology: The Forest list contains 45 noxious weed species, 30 of which are high priority species for control. Even small levels of weeds are a concern, as they increase very rapidly, and then become uncontrollable. The Forest strategy focuses on treating high priority weed species in high priority places before they get to damaging levels as funding allows. Early detection and rapid response prevention practices are implemented. The Forest continues high priority treatments of the few noxious weed species known to exist within Wilderness on the Forest. The Forest prioritized treatment of infestations outside Wilderness by considering factors such as species, proximity and dispersal ability to Wilderness and trailheads, State ratings of species, and the ability to be successful with available control methods. Results: Our Watershed Council partners have been instrumental in locating new infestations in their respective watersheds. Two new infestations of Euphorbia oblongata (oblong spurge), 3 new infestation of Isatis tinctoria, and 3 new infestations of Potentilla recta were reported in FY 2016. These new infestations are being actively treated by partners and Forest staff. Further Action Required: None required. Current protocols of early detection and rapid response will continue. B. Inventory/Control/Management Methodology: In FY 2016, The Forest had a one person Forest noxious weed crew stationed out of the Supervisor’s Office in Yreka. The Forest also has a small dedicated force of employees and volunteers that contribute in many substantial ways to the weed treatment program. This cadre includes: District Botanists, a small YCC crew at Goosenest and Salmon/Scott River Districts; a very active river ranger and volunteers at Happy Camp that treat river corridors; fire crews, and range and recreation technicians. The Forest also has community partners: the Salmon River Restoration Council, the Mid- Klamath Watershed Council, Siskiyou County School groups, volunteers from US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Natural Resource Conservation Service, and the Siskiyou Satellite of the California Conservation Corps in Yreka. We also work closely with the Siskiyou County Department of Agriculture for treatment on private lands adjacent to the Forest. Effectiveness of treatment methods is measured on the first visit to the site the year following treatment, and then throughout the season on return visits. This evaluation is entered into the national Natural Resource Information Service Invasive Species database. Results: In FY 2016, the Forest and its partners treated 765 acres including 21 different species on over 344 sites. Treatments occurred in high priority sites including: burned areas, trailheads, river accesses, Wilderness, roads leading into Wilderness, watersheds with few infestations to date, small satellite sites away from main river corridors, and larger infestations of “A” rated weeds that carry mandatory eradication direction from the State. In conjunction with these treatments, a total of 2,460 acres were

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report monitored for the presence of noxious weed infestations and/or to determine treatment needs. Approximately 36 percent (275 acres) of treatments were accomplished using volunteer efforts. Isatis tinctoria (dyer’s woad) continues to spread throughout the forest, along roads, river corridors, and anywhere there is disturbance (e.g. fire, timber harvest, mastication, or any activity that creates large openings in the canopy). Yellow starthistle is also quite prevalent in hotter, drier sites. Scotch broom is prevalent along the Klamath and Lower Scott watersheds. These species are only treated in geographically prioritized areas since they are so common on the Forest. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The Forest plans to continue with current treatment and monitoring efforts. C. Project-level monitoring and treatment Methodology: Project level monitoring and treatment, if possible, is conducted within three years of project completion. Some areas, depending on the project, are monitored annually dependent upon risk factors and types of disturbance. All projects have project design features that intend to limit the risk of introduction and spread of invasive species. Results: Some highlights of specific projects: • Big Ridge Grazing allotment: Treatment has been occurring at South Fork Kelsey Meadows and Bear Lake for many years. Dyer’s woad has been steadily declining, especially since follow-up visits were instituted in the late-summer in order to capture re-sprouts and seeding. In FY 2016, the infestations at the Kelsey Meadow sites appeared to be declining and were successfully treated in one day. Revisits were made in the late summer to clean up re-sprouts and missed rosettes. The Bear Lake infestations continues to decline and was treated in half of a day by three people, re-visits to this site were not deemed necessary in FY 2016. • Mcbaldy: Results of five year monitoring indicate that the combination of substantial dormant seed bank and project related ground disturbance did result in extensive expansion of the Dyer’s woad infestation present in this project area. The second year after implementation, a large germination event occurred from a dormant seed bank, with infestation exceeding 10,000 plants. Continued treatment has contained this infestation to project units and there has been no evidence of expansion into Calochortus persistens conservation areas. • Westside Fire Recovery: Surveys indicate that Isatis tinctoria has spread throughout the project area. Sale administrators are helping document new infestations and are working with contractors to implement project design features and limit weed spread as much as possible. This area will be a target for the Forest noxious weed crew in FY 16 and 17. Further Action Required: No further action is required. Continuing monitoring and treatment in project areas is planned. D. Educational Outreach and Prevention Methodology: As an integral member of the Siskiyou County Weed Management Area group, the Forest has participated in numerous outreach events and has led an educational booth at the Siskiyou County Fair every year since 2001. The 2016 fair booth reached approximately 940 people. Results: Outreach and education events have been successful, measured by the number of new species reported for the County. This year the Forest hosted an interagency woad warrior day that was attended

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report by four different agencies including local, state, and federal groups. We also led and staffed the Siskiyou County Weed Management Area booth at the county fair. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The Forest plans to continue with current efforts and expanding efforts where possible. E. Restoration and Rehabilitation Methodology: Following removal of noxious weeds, native species are typically given time to return naturally to treated sites. If the site is extensive, treated using solarization, or part of fire rehabilitation than native perennial grass seed is used to occupy bare ground until native vegetation can become established. In FY 2016, funds were obligated for the purpose of growing and obtaining native plant materials for future needs. Results: Several beds producing grass seed and propagules were started in FY 2016 at Coeur d’Alene and J. Herbert Stone Forest Service Nurseries. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The Forest will continue eradicating small sites of selected species and holding, controlling, or decreasing the populations of other priority species at known, selected sites. Native plant materials collection and increase will also continue. F. Strategic planning Methodology: Efforts were conducted at national, State, and local levels. Results: At the national level, the Invasive Species Strategy and Implementation Plan of 2004 has been updated. The Forest Service National Strategic Framework for Invasive Species Management, August 2013, is now the current direction. This document is available here: http://www.fs.fed.us/publications/invasive/invasive-framework-2013.pdf At the State level, the State-wide weed mapping project implemented cooperatively with the California Invasive Plant Council and partners, funded by USDA State and Private Forestry resulted in prioritized eradication targets for Siskiyou County. The KNF and Weed Management Area Partners are currently writing grant proposals to fund these eradication targets. The North Central Eradication Plan, which includes the KNF and Siskiyou County, is available on-line at http://calweedmapper.calflora.org/regions/. Further Action Required: No further action is required. The completion of a forest strategy, and adoption of prevention Best Management Practices are planning goals. We will also continue our efforts to build partnerships and find opportunities for outside funding sources to support the program. Cultural Resource Management Monitoring Objective: The purpose of monitoring is to identify effects to heritage resources and provide appropriate mitigation in the event that effects are adverse. It is extremely important that adverse effects to significant sites are recognized and mitigated before the sites lose the information and integrity that makes them eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Monitoring also aids in determining whether mitigation measures are working to address adverse effects and stabilize sites.

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Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Monitoring: Site monitoring is a necessary component of the process required to comply with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). As part of the project review process, previously recorded historic properties within the Area of Potential Effect (APE) are identified and monitored for past effects as well as to identify any potential effects that may occur as a result of project implementation. Site monitoring is also required under Section 110 of the NHPA as part of a pro-active heritage program. Sites are monitored to assess current conditions, identify past or on-going effects and to determine appropriate mitigation measures. Monitoring information can also be used to update site records and assist in the nomination of the site to the National Register. Results: Approximately 75 sites were monitored last year to identify effects from project implementation, environmental conditions, OHV use, wildland fire and fire suppression activities and looting. Monitoring data gathered from these sites aided the Forest in providing information during consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer and interested Tribal officials. This information was also used to update site records, assess NRHP eligibility and develop mitigation. Monitoring related to project planning and implementation (Section 106) occurs for every project the Forest develops. Monitoring completed in compliance with Section 110 has increased due to a greater focus on non- project related accomplishments and appropriate budget allocations. The Forest continues to meet heritage program objectives and targets established by the Region. Further Action Required: Continue updating the heritage database with monitoring information. Monitor more sites for Section 110 compliance. Planning

A. Forest Plan Modeling Objective: Validate assumptions used in the Forest Plan to predict impacts to resource programs including visual, wildlife, and earth sciences.

Monitoring, Results, & Future Action Required: See preceding discussions for each resource area or program.

B. Program and Budget Objective: Determine actual costs associated with implementing planned management prescriptions as compared with costs estimated in the Forest Plan Methodology: Forest budget and annual budget projections are tracked. Discussion: The economic analysis for the environmental impact statement for the Forest Plan focused on the impact of each alternative on the present net value (the estimate of the market value of forest resources after all costs have been subtracted). Program budgets have fluctuated according to a variety of congressional laws and earmarks, and court requirements (Northwest Forest Plan, Herger-Feinstein Act, Lake Tahoe Deliverables, Southern California Forest Plan revisions, Northwest Forest Plan Settlement Agreement, Fire Transfer, etc.). A recap of the Forest budget indicates that, since 1995, most resource program budgets have been stable or declining, with timber management fluctuating between high and low points, fire stabilizing after several years of expansion, and fuels declining, like most other resources. 58

Klamath National Forest FY 2016 Monitoring and Evaluation Report

Further Action Required: No further action is required.

C. Other Monitoring – Outputs of Timber Harvest and Fuels Treatments Objective & Monitoring: Compare the acres of timber harvest and fuels treatments, as modeled for the Forest Plan, with actual accomplishments on an annual basis. Results: In the Forest Plan, timber harvest from regulated lands was modeled at an average of 51 million board feet (7.6 million cubic feet) per year over the first decade (1995-2004). This amount of timber harvest was intended to be accomplished on only 4,040 acres primarily using green tree retention prescriptions to accomplish this goal. However, since 1998, timber harvest has been achieved primarily through thinning instead of green tree retention methods. As a result, the intensity of timber harvest treatments has been reduced, and treatments are required over a larger amount of acres to achieve the same volume of timber removal. Since the Forest Plan was approved, the Forest has achieved or exceeded its annual FY timber target eight times (1996, 1997, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016). The Forest offered and awarded about 118,011 hundred cubic feet of timber and convertible products in FY 2016. This exceeded the assigned target of 50,000 hundred cubic feet by about 58 percent. The Forest Plan modeled timber harvest from unregulated lands (where trees are harvested solely to achieve goals of ecosystem health) at about 6,000 to 12,000 acres per year, while unregulated lands are not programmed and are generally incidental. See the Timber Management section of this report for more information. The Forest Plan modeled fuels treatments at about 27,000 acres per year, including 9,375 acres of prescribed burning, 3,183 acres of timber-related treatments, and 14,550 acres of other fuels treatments (e.g. mastication). For FY 2016, the assigned Forest target for hazardous fuels reduction was 20,770 acres. The Forest exceeded target, accomplishing 41,594 acres. Of the accomplished target, 18,767 acres were accomplished through claiming low severity wildfire acres as treatment, and 22,867 target acres were accomplished through prescribed burning and other fuels treatments. Of the Forest treatments accomplished, approximately 75 percent were located within areas considered as wildland urban interface. See the Fire Management—Prescribed Fire Program section of this report for more information. Further Action Required: Annual comparisons will be continued for FY 2017.

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